Gilberto Ramirez stopped Sullivan Barrera in round four of a scheduled 12-round light heavyweight bout at Banc of California Stadium in Los Angeles.

In round three, Ramirez dropped Barrera with a straight left to the body. In round four, it was the same exact same shot that sent Barrera down again. Ramirez ended things a few seconds later when he landed another straight left to the body that made Barrera take a step back and go to his knees and the fight was stopped at 1:34.

Ramirez, 174.6 lbs of Mazaltan. MEX is 42-0 with 28 knockouts. Barrera, 174.6 lbs of Miami is 22-4.

Diaz Decisions Fortuna; Wins Interim Lightweight Title

Joseph Diaz won the WBC Interim Lightweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Javier Fortuna.

It was a competitive fight with both guys throwing and landing at close range. Diaz was just a little quicker in those exchanges, and was able to get the better of most of the action.

In round three, Diaz was cut around the left eye due to an accidental headbutt. In round four, Diaz was deducted a point for hitting behind the head.

Diaz landed 203 of 521 punches; Fortuna was 193 of 761.

Diaz, 134.4 lbs of South El Monte, CA won by scores of 117-110, 116-111 and 115-112 and is now 32-1-1. Fortuna, 134.6 lbs of Lo Romana, DR is 36-3-1.

Estrada decisions Tsunami; Wins Light Flyweight Belt

Seneisa Estrada added the WBA Light Flyweight world title to her WBO Minimumweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Tenkai Tsunami.

Estrada was the more active fighter who landed some crisp-combinations on the aggressive no former champion.

Estrada laded 131 of 464 punches; Tsunami was 97 of 378.

Estrada, 108 lbs of East Los Angeles, CA won by scores 99-91 and 98-92 twice and is now 21-0. Tsunami, 107.2 lbs of Japan is 28-14-1.

Zepeda stops Tanajara after 6

In a fight featuring undefeated lightweights, William Zepeda stopped Hector Tanajara Jr. after round six of a schedu;ed 10-round lightweight.

Zepeda stayed on the inside and landed combination after combination and Tanajara continued to take punishment. Tanajara tried to fight back, but did not have enough behind his punches to make much of an imprint, and the fight was stopped following round six.

Zepeda, 134.2 lbs of Mexico is 23-0 with 21 knockouts. Tanajra, 135 lbs of San Antonio, TX is 19-1.

Naoko Fujioka retained the WBA Flyweight title with a majority decision over Sulem Urbina.

Fujioka, 111.8 lbs of Tokyo, JAP won by scores of 99-91, 96-94 and 95-95 and is now 19-2-1. Urbina, 112 lbs of Phoenix, AZ is 12-3.

Bryan Chevelier won a 10-round unanimous decision over James Wilkins in a featherweight bout.

In round five, Wilkins started to bleed from his mouth.

In round eight, Chevalier was deducted a point for pushing the head of Wilkins down.

Chevalier, 126 lbs of Puerto Rico won by scores of 97-92, 96-93 and 95-94 and is now 16-1-1. Wilkins, 125.8 lbs of Staten Island, NY is 9-2.

In a battle of former world title challengers, Lamont Roach Jr. took out Daniel Rosas in round two of a scheduled 10-round super featherweight bout.

In round two, Roach landed a hard flurry that was finished off with a hard right to the body and Rosas went to the deck and the fight was stopped at 2:14.

Rpach, 130 lbs of Washington, DC is now 21-1-1 with nine knockouts. Rosas, 128.2 lbs of Mexico City, MEX is 21-5-1.

Miguel Gaona made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Gilberto Aguilar in a lightweight fight.

Gaona, 135 lbs of Serano, CA won by scores of 39-37 on all cards and is now 1-0. Aguilar, 134 lbs of Mexico City, MEX is 0-3.

Azat Hovhsnnisyan won a 10-round unanimous decision over Jose Gonzalez in a super bantamweight match.

In round three, Hovhannisyan started to swell under his right eye.

In round eight, Hovahannisyan landed a huge barrage of punches that sent Gonzalez down.

Hovhannisyan, 122 lbs of Los Angeles, CA won by scores of 100-89 and 99-90 twice and is now 20-3. Gonzalez, 121.6 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 23-7-1.

Mihai Nistor was dropped twice, but was able to come back and stop Colby Madison in round two of a scheduled eight-round heavyweight slugfest

In round one, Nistor sent Madison to a knee with a body shot. At the end of the round Madison dropped Nistor with a hard right hand. In round two, Madison dropped Nistor with a big counter right. Later in the round, Nistor landed a wild overhand right that dropped Madison and the fight was stopped upon Madison getting to his feet at

Nistor, 223 lbs of Bucharest, ROM is 3-0 with three knockouts. Madison, 229.6 lbs of Baltimore, MD is 9-3-2.

In a battle of undefeated super lightweights, Starling Castillo viciously stopped Miguel Contreras in round two of a scheduled eight-round bout.

Castillo landed a nasty straight left that knocked Contreras straight out and the fight was stopped at 46 seconds.

Castillo, 135.6 lbs of San Cristobal, DR is 15-0 with 12 knockouts. Contreras, 133.4 lbs of Bakersfield, CA is 11-1.

Gregory Morales remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over former super flyweight world champion Rodrigo Guerrero in a featherweight fight.

In round three, Morales began to bleed from the nose.

Morales, 124 lbs of San Antonio, TX won by scores of 59-55 on all cards and is now 13-0. Guerrero, 123.6 lbs of Mexico City is 26-12-2.

LOS ANGELES, CA (July 7, 2021) – Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (41-0, 27 KOs) and Sullivan Barrera (22-3, 14 KOs) hosted their final press conference today at Banc of California Stadium, home of their July 9 fight which will be streamed live on DAZN. They were joined by several members of the undercard, including Joseph Diaz Jr. (31-1-1, 15 KOs) and Seniesa Estrada (20-0, 8 KOs).

Below is what the main event participants had to say today:

GILBERTO RAMIREZ, Light Heavyweight Contender:
“This Friday, we are going to put on a great show. I know Sullivan Barrera very well and he knows me. We know that each of us always comes well prepared and ready to put on a show. But at the end of the day, I’ll be the one to come out with my hands raised in victory. I’m going to come out with a record of 42 wins and 28 knockouts.”

“The road to this fight has been exciting. I am happy to be working with Golden Boy Promotions. I am grateful for the opportunity. I want to give a great performance and show all my skills. I’m going to give the fans what they want: good fights!”

“I’m also very excited to be fighting here at Banc of California Stadium. I can’t wait to see all the people here, who are finally back to these kinds of events. There will be a lot of Mexicans and Latinos coming here to support me, so I can’t wait to give them a great show.”

SULLIVAN BARRERA, Light Heavyweight Contender:
“I respect Zurdo Ramírez a lot. We have known each other for a long time. As he said, we know that each of us trains hard. We know that because we have trained together and sparred. But now is the time to put on a great show for all the fans.”

“Everyone knows what I have done in this division. My experience says a lot. I have some loses, but they were against very tough fighters. My experience will be a big factor.”

“Zurdo Ramirez has a lot of skills. He does of things very well. But I have to do everything necessary to win this fight and earn another title shot. A win will help me get that opportunity.”

#

Zurdo vs. Barrera is a 12-round special attraction in the light heavyweight division presented by Golden Boy in association with Zurdo Promotions. Diaz Jr. vs. Fortuna is a 12-round battle for the vacant WBC Interim Lightweight Championship presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Friday, July 9 at Banc of California Stadium in Downtown Los Angeles and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Tickets for Zurdo vs. Barrera are on sale and are priced at $150, $75, $50 and $35, not including applicable service charges. In an effort to promote social distancing, tickets will initially be sold in pods/groupings of 2, 3, 4 and 6 people only, subject to change with local and state guidelines. Tickets will be available for purchase at www.bancofcaliforniastadium.com or www.ticketmaster.com. The Banc of California Stadium is located in historic Exposition Park, 3939 S. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90037.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #ZurdoBarrera

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/ZurdoBarrera into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy for any photo and/or video usage.

LOS ANGELES, CA (July 6, 2021) – Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (41-0, 27 KOs) and Sullivan Barrera (22-3, 14 KOs) hosted a media workout today at Banc of California Stadium, home of their July 9 fight which will be streamed live on DAZN. They were joined by several members of the undercard, including Joseph Diaz Jr. (31-1-1, 15 KOs) and Seniesa Estrada (20-0, 8 KOs).

Below is what the main event participants had to say:

GILBERTO RAMIREZ, Light Heavyweight Contender:
“I see every fight as an opportunity. This is my chance to start my path to becoming a two-division world champion. I know this is a tough fight. It will be very difficult for me. He has a lot of experience, and he’s fought against a lot of good fighters. But he’s never faced anyone like me. This Friday, you will all see the best version of Zurdo Ramirez. I’m here to take all of the belts at light heavyweight. I’m here to take the souls of all the warriors at this division.”

SULLIVAN BARRERA, Light Heavyweight Contender:
“I feel good. I feel great. After two years of being away from the ring, it’s great to be able to come back at such a high level. This is a great opportunity to show people what I am made of. Ramirez is a tough challenge. I know the kind of style he’s going to bring. He’s going to want to push me back and throw a lot of punches. But that’s not the kind of fight that I want. I want to be in the center of the ring, and I’m going to be the one pushing him back.”

#

Zurdo vs. Barrera is a 12-round special attraction in the light heavyweight division presented by Golden Boy in association with Zurdo Promotions. Diaz Jr. vs. Fortuna is a 12-round battle for the vacant WBC Interim Lightweight Championship presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Friday, July 9 at Banc of California Stadium in Downtown Los Angeles and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Tickets for Zurdo vs. Barrera are on sale and are priced at $150, $75, $50 and $35, not including applicable service charges. In an effort to promote social distancing, tickets will initially be sold in pods/groupings of 2, 3, 4 and 6 people only, subject to change with local and state guidelines. Tickets will be available for purchase at www.bancofcaliforniastadium.com or www.ticketmaster.com. The Banc of California Stadium is located in historic Exposition Park, 3939 S. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90037.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #ZurdoBarrera

LOS ANGELES, CA (June 23, 2021) – Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (41-0, 27 KOs), Joseph “Jo Jo” Diaz Jr. (31-1-1, 15 KOs) and Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada (20-0, 8 KOs) hosted a media workout today at Brickhouse Boxing Club in North Hollywood, California ahead of their respective bouts. All three will return on July 9 live on DAZN from Banc of California Stadium in Downtown Los Angeles.

Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy, also attended the workout.

Below is what today’s participants had to say.

GILBERTO RAMIREZ, Light Heavyweight Contender:
“I feel grateful and happy to be fighting on July 9. It will be an amazing night. There will be a lot of Latinos and a lot of Mexican people supporting. It has given me an additional motivation. It’s going to be a great night, along with Joseph Diaz Jr. and Seniesa Estrada.”

“I expect an explosive fight. We both will come forward. People like seeing explosive fights, and that’s what we are going to deliver. I am doing everything I can in camp to make sure that I win.”

“I’m happy to be with Golden Boy. I joined them because Oscar De La Hoya is my idol. I have been watching him since I was a kid. Also, he is a legend, and that’s what I want to be as well. Together we can make that happen.”

JOSEPH DIAZ JR., Former IBF Super Featherweight Champion:
“I’m ready to defeat this boogeyman that everyone is scared to fight. I’m not afraid or worried about anything he’s going to bring inside that ring. I’ve seen it all already. I’ve covered all of my bases in training camp, and I’m ready to perform on July 9.”

“I’m ready to brawl with him, but I don’t think he’ll want to exchange once he feels my power. He’s going to try to be elusive and try to box. That’s the fight I am expecting. But I can also work with other styles too. If he wants to brawl, we can do that too.”

“I want to deliver a spectacular performance. I’m going there to try to hurt Javier Fortuna. I’m really focused. I’ve just had one of the best training camps of my entire career, and I’m ready.”

SENIESA ESTRADA, WBA Minimumweight World Champion:
“I just fought for a world title in March. Then, I took a couple weeks off training and went right back into the gym. I’m happy to be fighting for another world title. I feel comfortable at all these weight classes, and I see myself fighting and defending titles at 105, 112 and 115 pounds.”

“Tenkai Tsunami is a tough fighter. She has fought in different weight classes, and she has even gone as high as bantamweight. Although she has some losses, they’ve been against legit champions. She has never been stopped either. That shows that she always goes in there to win and to fight.”

“By fighting smart and sticking to my game plan, I will be successful. I think that if all goes as planned, I could even stop her.”

#

Zurdo vs. Barrera is a 12-round special attraction in the light heavyweight division presented by Golden Boy in association with Zurdo Promotions. Diaz Jr. vs. Fortuna is a 12-round battle for the vacant WBC Interim Lightweight Championship presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Friday, July 9 at Banc of California Stadium in Downtown Los Angeles and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Tickets for Zurdo vs. Barrera are on sale and are priced at $150, $75, $50 and $35, not including applicable service charges. In an effort to promote social distancing, tickets will initially be sold in pods/groupings of 2, 3, 4 and 6 people only, subject to change with local and state guidelines. Tickets will be available for purchase at www.bancofcaliforniastadium.com or www.ticketmaster.com. The Banc of California Stadium is located in historic Exposition Park, 3939 S. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90037.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #ZurdoBarrera

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/ZurdoBarrera into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy for any photo and/or video usage.

LOS ANGELES, CA (May 18, 2021): Undefeated contender Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (41-0, 27 KOs) will make his Golden Boy debut in a Mexico vs. Cuba battle as he takes on Sullivan Barrera (22-3, 14 KOs) in a 12-round light heavyweight fight. The event will take place on Friday, July 9 and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN
worldwide.

Details regarding the venue, which will be in Los Angeles, will be announced shortly.

“There are a lot of major players in the light heavyweight division right now, and Gilberto Ramirez is ready to demonstrate that he is very much among them,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “Sullivan Barrera possesses a decorated amateur background and has a lot of experience in this weight class, but Ramirez is totally committed to becoming a two-division champion. Zurdo’s world title campaign and his journey to 50-0 will start on July 9.”

Despite being only 29 years old, Ramirez has over a decade of experience under his belt, debuting as a professional in 2009 and embarking on a career that would see him defeating the likes of Maxim Vlasov, Jessie “Hard Work” Hart and “King” Arthur Abraham, whom he defeated to become the WBO Super Middleweight World Champion. After five defenses of his belt, Ramirez moved up to light heavyweight, where he has scored wins against Thomas “Kryptonite” Karpency and Alfonso “El Tigre” Lopez. Ramirez’s goal is to maintain his undefeated streak beyond 50 fights and to become a two-division world champion.

“I’m excited to be headlining this show in Los Angeles with Golden Boy Promotions,” said Gilberto Ramirez. “It’s going to be a great night of boxing with fans back in the stands. I’ve always enjoyed fighting here, and I can’t wait to put on a show to continue my hunt for the light heavyweight championship. I appreciate Oscar and the Golden Boy family for their love and support, and I look will forward to a great night of boxing.”

In 2009, Barrera culminated a spectacular amateur career, defected from Cuba to the United States, and made his professional debut in Miami, Florida. In only his eighth fight, he captured two regional titles by defeating Frank Paines, which he followed with victories against the likes of Jeff “Left Hook” Lacy and Karo Murat. Barrera suffered his first defeat against Andre “S.O.G.” Ward, but returned to score wins against Vyacheslav “Lion Heart” Shabranskyy and Joe Smith Jr. The 39-year-old contender has also faced the likes of Dmitry Bivol, Sean Monaghan and Jesse Hart.

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to headline such a big card against Gilberto Ramirez,” said Sullivan Barrera. “I know that my opponent is a former world champion with a lot of experience and that he will come very much prepared. However, I feel that I have faced much better opposition. I’ve also spent my entire career in the light heavyweight division, something that will be totally new for him. It will be a difficult fight, but I will walk away with my hands raised in victory.”

In the co-main event, Joseph “Jo Jo” Diaz Jr. (31-1-1, 15 KOs) of South El Monte, California will step up to 135 pounds to take on Javier “El Abejon” Fortuna (36-2-1, 25 KOs) of La Romana, Dominican Republic in a 12-round bout.

“I’m stepping in for Ryan Garcia to challenge Javier Fortuna,” said Joseph Diaz Jr. “I wish him nothing but the best. Mental health is a very important matter that people should deal with. I’m excited and ready to go out there and redeem myself to all my fans. I’m extremely focused and locked in. Fight night is going to be a movie. I’ll be putting the whole 130 and 135-pound division on notice.”

“I’m very happy that Jo Jo Diaz has accepted the challenge to face me, as long as after the fight he makes no excuses for getting knocked out”, said Javier Fortuna. “I give Diaz credit for having the balls to fight me. Devin Haney doesn’t have those balls. But after I win this fight, Haney will have 90 days to find them. Haney can run but he can’t hide. Fight me or give up the WBC title!”

#

Zurdo vs. Barrera is a 12-round special attraction in the light heavyweight division presented by Golden Boy in association with Zurdo Promotions. Diaz Jr. vs. Fortuna is a 12-round lightweight battle presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Friday, July 9 and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN fworldwide.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #ZurdoBarrera

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/ZurdoBarrera into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy for any photo and/or video usage.

By Bart Barry-

Saturday on DAZN in a non-title match, the fighting pride of Tajikistan, undefeated super featherweight Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov, settled for a majority draw against California’s Joseph “Jo Jo” Diaz, a former Olympian and IBF titlist, in a California casino.  The match was not spectacular but better than what its weighin portended.

This was to be a redemption thing of some sort for Diaz even before it had to be an even larger redemption thing for Diaz.  It sure wasn’t either.

Long before Friday’s weighin debacle Diaz’s comportment raised questions about his willingness.  Setting aside his skedaddling out the featherweight division without rematching reluctant Gary Russell, there was a contract and general understanding Diaz should give a rematch to Tevin Farmer, the man Diaz won his IBF super featherweight title from 13 months ago.  Diaz, in no hurry to fight Farmer again and promoted by an adrift outfit now without its one revenue generator, allowed COVID-19 considerations to scuttle his rematch and assign an unknown Tajikistani in Farmer’s stead.

Then Diaz missed weight by so much weight he wasn’t allowed to try again.  The culprit?  A missing sauna at Fantasy Springs Casino.  In his postfight interview Diaz used his generation’s version of postmodernist cant, beginning a torrent of excuses with the standard disclaimer: No excuses.  There were the hometown haters trying to make money off his name, and childbirth, and a host venue so unprofessional as to tell Diaz to make weight by making his own sauna in his hotel room.  There were Saturday’s judges, too, who mistook Diaz’s blocking everything thrown at him for landed punches.

Somewhere in this no-excuse-making mishmash, delightfully enough, the large gash to the outside of Diaz’s right eye, opened undoubtedly by a blocked punch, began spurting blood down the angering former titlist’s face.  It wasn’t bleeding quite so steadily as Diaz’s nose had through much of the fight – another victim of a blocked punch.

Diaz’s outrage played authentic as his haircolor and promoter’s every utterance.  Diaz long has felt like an Oscar knockoff.  The rehearsed autobiography, the California roots, the Olympic dreams, the vanity.  With about half the talent.

Saturday Diaz was easily the more talented fighter, still.  Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov holds no secrets.  With Freddie Roach in his corner, too, what secrets he once held are fewer.  Coach Freddie wants his men to hurt the men across from them – “he’s not your friend”.  Roach’s own condition, the product of other men once hurting him, lends a counterintuitive credence to his demands.  If a conditioning coach unscathed by others’ fists implored his charges to hurt other men, it would sound bullying, weekend warrior-ish, silly, in its way, as that Vince Lombardi hologram a couple Sundays ago.  That Roach’s neck is strained and his hands shake with Parkinson’s while he implores a fighter to hurt the man across from him says This is the only way, son, for if there were another way, wouldn’t I be the one to tell you?

That Roach says it doesn’t mean his charges take heed, necessarily, as Rakhimov didn’t in the later rounds Saturday, when either his conditioning failed or his affection for Jo Jo succeeded and Rakhimov relented right about the time the fight was there for his taking.  A life-changing event for Rakhimov?  No, not really.  COVID-19 is a life-changing event.  Winning a sliver of a title from Jo Jo during a pandemic is not.

Besides, if we’re going to concern ourselves with what was squandered Saturday, let’s go back to Jo Jo, where the squandering considerations begin and end.  As everyone knows, Golden Boy Promotions is not in a very good place.  Without Canelo Alvarez the company is a regional promoter with a flaky figurehead.  The contract they have with DAZN, such as it is, relies primarily on DAZN’s current lack of meaningful fights and fighters.  That should persist for some time, helping both parties overlook how little value Golden Boy Promotions brings a broadcaster without Canelo on its roster.

It would be an excellent time for Jo Jo to show his promoter and his promoter’s network he is the next Ryan Garcia.  Instead Jo Jo comes to his first title defense woefully unprepared and goofy as hell in orange coif.  Much more Son of the Legend than Niño de Oro.  Does he get in the ring on a redemption quest, bin all self-preservation and ice an opponent we might later memorialize as “that tough Russian”?  Nope.  He tries for a quarter of each opening round then goes on defense and ekes out a draw, much to his father’s vocal dismay (and has anyone thought to coach trainers on how audible they’ve become to judges?).

Jo Jo can now give Tevin Farmer that rematch, if Farmer still wants it, or Jo Jo can go away.

Bart Barry can be reached via Twitter @bartbarry

INDIO, CALIF. (Feb. 11, 2021): Joseph Diaz Jr. (31-1, 15 KOs) and Shavkat Rakhimov (15-0, 12 KOs) hosted their final press conference today at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino ahead of their 12-round fight for Diaz Jr.’s IBF Junior Lightweight Championship.

The fight, which will headline a stacked card of action, will take place this Saturday, Feb. 13 and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN in more than 200 countries and territories, including the U.S., Mexico, Russia, Tajikistan, Brazil and Argentina.

Below is what both fighters had to say at the presser:

Joseph Diaz Jr, IBF Junior Lightweight World Champion:

“I’m focused on going out there and performing at my best. I want to entertain fight fans and show them what I am all about. I want to show that I am the best at 130 pounds.”

“It’s been a year-long layoff, but it’s been a great year-long layoff. I was able to witness the birth of my son, and I was able to spend some time away from boxing. I was able to enjoy life as a normal person.”

“But now I have this tough challenger ahead of me. We’ve taken this fight very seriously. We know exactly what he is all about. We know what he’s capable of doing, and we know he is a serious threat, but we know we’ll be able to adapt to anything on Saturday night.”

“I don’t feel like I get the respect that I deserve in this division. In my career in general, I haven’t gotten the respect that I deserve. But it’s all good. I’ve already dealt with so much adversity in my life. I’m already immune to it. I just focus on training as hard as I can to get the job done that night.”

“I faced a bit of adversity in the Gary Russell Jr. fight. I learned a lot that night. But I won’t let anything else prevent me from being what I want to be and doing what I want to do I the ring.”

“I’m ready for anything this Saturday. I’m ready for anything that he will bring to the table. If he thinks he will come in here and overwhelm me with his power–that is not going to happen. I’m strong and I’m big just like him. I will be able to take his shots and give them back. I worked my ass off to get this belt, and I’m not letting go.”

Shavkat Rakhimov, World Title Challenger:

“I have been waiting for this moment for a long time. My dream has finally come true, so I am very glad.”

“Our game plan this Saturday is to do anything possible to win the fight. The key is to do anything that needs to be done to win. Diaz is going to be in for a big surprise on Saturday.”

“JoJo is a good boxer. But he will not be able to handle my power.”

#

Diaz Jr. vs. Rakhimov is a 12-round fight for the IBF Junior Lightweight World Title presented by Golden Boy in association with RCC Boxing Promotions. Teixeira vs. Castaño is the 12-round co-main event for the WBO
Junior Middleweight World Championship presented by Golden Boy in association with TGB Promotions. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle,” “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts,” and O’Reilly Auto Parts. Better Parts, Better Prices…everyday! The fight will take place Saturday, Feb. 13 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN in more than 200 countries and territories, including the U.S., Mexico, Russia, Tajikistan, Brazil and Argentina.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #DiazRakhimov

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/DiazRakhimov into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy or Main Events where applicable for any photo and/or video usage.

INDIO, CALIF. (Jan. 21, 2021): Two exciting in-house battles between some of Golden Boy’s best talent will head toFantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. on the undercard of Diaz vs. Rakhimov as Ronny Rios (32-3, 16 KOs) and Oscar “El Jaguar” Negrete (19-2-2, 7 KOs) face off in a super bantamweight battle and Jason Quigley (18-1, 14 KOs) and Shane Mosley Jr. (16-3, 9 KOs) fight for the NABO Middleweight Title.

The stacked event will take place Saturday, Feb. 13 and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN in more than 200 countries and territories, including the U.S., Mexico, Russia, Tajikistan, Brazil and Argentina.

“Golden Boy’s first journey to Fantasy Springs in 2021 picks up right where we left off—with an action-packed card from top to bottom,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “A true crossroads fight will see Jason Quigley and Shane Mosley Jr. leaving it all in the ring to regain contender status in the middleweight division. And after upsetting my cousin Diego De La Hoya, Ronny Rios will look to keep it rolling against an always-tough customer in Oscar Negrete, whose only two losses have come to a world champion.”

Rios is a 30-year-old contender of Santa Ana, California who is coming off three consecutive stoppage wins, including a dominant knockout victory of then-undefeated Diego De La Hoya in 2019. Rios plans to capitalize on this opportunity in convincing fashion in order to accelerate his path to another world title shot.

“COVID-19 robbed all of us of something, whether it was memories, family members, friends, or in my case, a year of my boxing career,” said Ronny Rios. “I have lost opportunities to make up for, and I’m hungrier than I’ve ever been. That’s not good news for Oscar Negrete. I have a lot of respect for Oscar, but at the end of the day, I have one job and that’s to break the will of every opponent I face. My time to capitalize on the momentum I’ve built in this sport starts with this fight.”

Negrete, a 33-year-old native of Tierralta, Colombia, will return to 122 pounds after a unanimous decision victory against two-time Olympian Alberto “Impacto” Melian and an unforgettable trilogy against Joshua “The Professor” Franco,who is now a world champion.

“I am delighted to be returning to the ring against Ronny Rios on February 13,” said Oscar Negrete. “Both he and I have a style that is very aggressive, and that’s going to guarantee a real war inside the ring. This fight will be very important in determining the future of this competitive division. That’s why I’ll be training at 100% in order to walk away with the victory and earn another opportunity at a world title.”

Quigley, a 29-year-old native of Donegal, Ireland will return after knockout victories against Abraham Cordero and Fernando Marin. He’ll look to regain his spot in the division after suffering his first and only defeat against Tureano Johnson in 2019.

“I feel more than ready for this fight,” said Jason Quigley. “I worked hard during lockdown and have stayed ready to fight at any time. I have to go in there and take care of business. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to fight on this card.”

Mosley Jr., a 30-year-old native of Pomona, California, will seek to earn a top stop at the division after signing with Golden Boy in 2020 and defeating Jeremy Ramos in his last outing.

“I want to thank everyone at Golden Boy and The Contender for giving us this opportunity,” said Shane Mosley Jr. “I have been working extremely hard, and I’m ready to show that I belong among the best in the world. Make sure to watch me live on DAZN on February 13 against an excellent fighter in Jason Quigley.”

The card will also feature many rising prospects and contenders.

Uzbek Olympian Bektemir “Bully” Melikuziev (6-0, 5 KOs) will make his highly anticipated return in a 10-round super middleweight clash.

Explosive Armenian contender Azat “Crazy A” Hovhannisyan (18-3, 15 KOs) will return in a 10-round super bantamweight bout.

Victor Morales (13-0, 7 KOs), the charismatic rising prospect of Vancouver, Washington, will participate in an eight-round featherweight bout against Jose Gonzalez (23-8-1, 13 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico.

Hawaiian prospect Dalis Kaleiopu will make his professional debut in a four-round lightweight fight against Eduardo Sanchez (2-3) of Corcoran, California.

The opponents for Melikuziev and Hovhannisyan will be announced shortly.

Diaz Jr. vs. Rakhimov is a 12-round fight for the IBF Junior Lightweight World Title presented by Golden Boy in association with RCC Boxing Promotions. Teixeira vs. Castaño is the 12-round co-main event for the WBO Junior Middleweight World Championship presented by Golden Boy in association with TGB Promotions. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle,” “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts,” and O’Reilly Auto Parts. Better Parts, Better Prices…everyday! The fight will take place Saturday, Feb. 13 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN in more than 200 countries and territories, including the U.S., Mexico, Russia, Tajikistan, Brazil and Argentina.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #DiazRakhimov

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/DiazRakhimov into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy or Main Events where applicable for any photo and/or video usage.

LOS ANGELES (Dec. 18, 2020): A new era has begun in the career of Joseph “JoJo” Diaz (31-1, 15 KOs) as he makes the first defense of his IBF Junior Lightweight World Title against mandatory challenger Shavkatdzhon “Shere Khan” Rakhimov (15-0, 12 KOs) in a 12-round battle between two southpaws with highly decorated amateur backgrounds. The co-main event will also feature a classic battle between Brasil’s Patrick Teixeira, who will defend his WBO Junior Middleweight World Title, and Argentine mandatory challenger Brian “El Boxi” Castaño.

The event will take place Saturday, Feb. 13 and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN in more than 200 countries and territories, including the U.S., Mexico, Russia, Tajikistan, Brazil and Argentina.

Information regarding the venue and undercard will be announced shortly.

“After his participation in the Olympics and turning professional, Joseph had one goal: become a world champion,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “Everyone at Golden Boy Promotions was so proud when Joseph had his hand raised and realized his dream. Now that he’s got that belt, he’s not giving it back any time soon.”

Diaz Jr. is a 28-year-old southpaw who represented the U.S. at the 2012 Olympic games in London. Immediately after, Diaz Jr. signed with Golden Boy and began a stellar career that has included fights against Gary Russell Jr., Andrew “El Chango” Cancio, Jesus Rojas, and Rafael “Big Bang” Rivera. In his last fight, the native of South El Monte, Calif. defeated Tevin “American Idol” Farmer to become the IBF Junior Lightweight Champion, which began a new phase of his career as he begins to take over the division.

“Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov is a very good fighter who is highly ranked throughout the world,” said Joseph Diaz Jr. “I know he’s been aching for a world title shot, but I’m ready to go out there and showcase that I’m willing to fight the best and defend my title with whoever wants to step in that ring with me. I’m the hungriest I’ve ever been, and there is nothing that he brings to the table that can affect me.”

“In my first main event on DAZN, I’m going to show to the world that I am the biggest threat at 130 pounds and a household name,” Diaz Jr. continued. “Not only am I doing this for myself, but I’m also doing this for my family. I fight to motivate people to keep on pushing and continue pursuing the dreams they have through the ups and downs in life. That’s my purpose. Come Feb. 13, I’m going to shine. It’s my time!”

Rakhimov is a 26-year-old puncher who earned gold medals in some of the world’s most prestigious international amateur tournaments. In 2015, the native of Qurghonteppa, Tajikistan made his professional debut, and in only his 11th fight as a professional, he captured the IBO Super Featherweight Title by scoring a sixth-round technical knockout over Emanuel Lopez. He defended the title three times, and one of those victories was against experienced contender Robinson “Robin Hood” Castellanos. Though no longer holding the IBO belt, he remains undefeated as he looks to capture a belt from one of the four recognized sanctioning bodies.

“I’ve been waiting for this chance for a long time,” Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov. “Thank you for this opportunity to my team. My training camp is long one but very good. I will do my best to win this fight. I came here for the victory!”

In the co-main event, Patrick Teixeira (31-1, 22 KOs) of Sau Paulo, Brazil will make the first defense of his WBO Super Junior Middleweight World Title against undefeated challenger Brian “El Boxi” Castaño (16-0-1, 12 KOs) of Buenos Aires, Argentina in a 12-round battle.

“I am very confident about this fight against Brian Castaño,” said Patrick Teixeira. “I am ready to defeat him and keep my title. The fight will be a war. It will be a bit show for all the boxing fans.”

Diaz Jr. vs. Rakhimov is a 12-round fight for the IBF Junior Lightweight World Title presented by Golden Boy in association with RCC Boxing Promotions. The fight will take place Saturday, Feb. 13 and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN in more than 200 countries and territories, including the U.S., Mexico, Russia, Tajikistan, Brazil and Argentina.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #DiazRakhimov

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/DiazRakhimov into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy or Main Events where applicable for any photo and/or video usage.

Miami Fight Night on DAZN during Super Bowl Week in Miami got kickstarted live from Meridian at Island Gardens with exciting bouts.

In the main event Demetrius Andrade (28-0 17 KOs) defends his WBO World Middleweight strap and stops Luke Keeler in 9 (17-2-1 5 KOs). Andrade dropped Keeler with the first one two of the fight in what looked like the very quick beginning to a very fast end. However what appeared to be a highlight reel performance by the champion, instead turned into a struggle to take out an opponent who did not belong in a world title fight. Andrade did not look like a polished Champion looking to shine on a huge stage and awaiting a big ticket payday or a marquee world title fight. He appeared more like a desperate fighter chasing a KnockOut versus an opponent who would not stand to round with any of the other top five guys in the division. In the end there was a devastating barrage of punches by the champion and the fight officially ended at two minutes 49 seconds of the ninth round.

In the co-main event 2012 Olympian JoJo Diaz 30-1(15 KO) rips the IBF Super-Featherweight title from Tevin Farmer 30-4-1(6 KO) after a war of words and battle in Miami. 

Diaz won the opening round and then Farmer won the next with a sharp jab and missile left hands, Diaz gets a nasty cut above his eye and is pouring blood the next couple rounds. The cut does not seem to slow the challenger as rounds five and six the two go toe to toe with the better work and accuracy going to Diaz. Through eight rounds I had it 6-2 Diaz. Round ten was a great tale of two halves with Diaz having the opening while he was unclose and Farmer when he was able to box at range behind his jab.  Diaz worked through the blood and cut and controlled the final two rounds and round twelve I felt Farmer was a bit concerned and knew he needed a knockout.  Both fighter left it all in the ring during the final stanza ending with Diaz bursting a scream of relief and success as the final bell rings  I scored this fight 116-112.  The judges came through with 116-112 and 115-113 twice. “He put up a helluva fight and did a great job and won” said Farmer after the fight.

Seven time, seven division female superstar Amanda “Real Deal” Serrano improved her incredible record to 38-1-1(28KO).  Serrano exploded out of the blue corner in round one and charged right at Simone Aparecida Da Silva 17-15 the former title contender from Sao Paulo, Brazil. Serrano boxed brilliantly setting up body shots and great uppercuts.  Da Silva was not afraid to mix it up and fought valiantly until :53 of round number 3 when Sam Burgos called a stop to the action saving Da Silva from herself officially a TKO win for Serrano.

MJ Akhmadaliev Makes History in Miami Winning the IBF & WBA Super Bantamweight Title

DAZN Miami Fight Night started with a historic IBF and WBA super bantamweight title clash between champion Daniel “DannyThe Baby Faced Assassin” Roman and challenger Murodjon “MJ” Akhmadaliev (7-0 6 KOs).  Akhmadaliev equaled Leon Spinks’ record of becoming a men’s unified World champion in just his eighth pro fight and became the first unified ruler from Uzbekistan.  MJ started on his front foot and went after the champion loading up and getting in range with nice body shots. Roman came forward targeting the body in the middle rounds finding his range making the rounds very close. Rounds eight and nine were fantastic back and forth going into the championship rounds.  Roman suffered a cut above the right eye around round 10. Roman came forward the final  fought hard to the final bell with Akhmadaliev winning the split decision with the cards reading 115-113 for Roman and 115-113 twice for Akhmadaliev.

In the opening bout red-hot Miss Swimsuit USA International and now bantamweight prospect Avril Mathie improved to 5-0 with a 4th round TKO win over Denver Colorados Angelina Hoffschneider.

In the Second bout Movladdin Biyarslanov improved to 6-0(5KO) with a third round TKO over Nicolas Atilio Velazquez11-8. As an amateur, Biyarslavnov racked up an 85-13 overall record, and collected four national championships. His greatest amateur achievement was his victory over the great Cuban Yasniel Toledo at the 2015 Pan Am Games, which netted him the gold medal and worldwide acclaim. A year later, he became the only male Canadian boxer to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.

Amateur standout Otha “OJ3“Jones III From Toledo Ohio battered Juan Santiago 16-18(9KO) with a variety right hands and left hooks through two rounds. OJ3 dropped Santiago just before referee Frank Gentile saved the Colorado fighter by stepping in at 1:29 seconds of the second round officially a TKO win for Jones who improves to 5-0(2KO).

The DAZN Live feed got underway with highly decorated amateur Austin “Ammo” Williams 5-0(4KO) winning in the fourth round stopping Donald Sanchez 5-3 of Albuquerque, New Mexico.  Ammo set the pace early working behind his southpaw jab and setting up his powerful left hands.  A hard overhand left in round number two put Sanchez on his ass, and again twice in the fourth marking the official end.

Colombian Roamer Alexis Angulo 26-1(22KO) retained his WBO Latino Super Middleweight Title in a chess match upset win over previously unbeaten Anthony “The Magician” Sims Jr 20-1 (18KO). A point in round 5 taken from Angulo for holding did not affect his lead as he won the close rounds with aggression hunting down Sims who spent nearly every minute of the GBfight jabbing, fainting, bouncing on his feet & moving out of harm which was Angulo. 

The final cards were split with all judges turning in scores of 96-93 1 card going to Sims and the other 2 to the winner Angulo.

Alexis Espino fighting out of improved to 6-0(5KO) with stoppage over  Vincent Baccus 4-2-1 at 1:49 of of the third round.

JoJo Diaz is ready to rip the IBF Super-Featherweight title from Tevin Farmer and ending the war of words that sees him challenge for the belt at the Meridian at Island Gardens in Miami on Thursday night, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW STARTING AT $40 (PLUS FEES)
 Diaz (30-1 15 KOs) is hunting for a World title at the second attempt having fallen short against Gary Russell Jr for the WBC Featherweight strap in May 2018 and failing to make the weight against Jesus Rojas for the WBA crown three months later.

The Californian has found 130lbs to be his sweet spot with three wins in 2019 setting up his shot with Farmer (30-4-1 6 KOs), and tensions between the pair on social media and in a clash in Las Vegas during the Canelo Alvarez vs. Daniel Jacobs fight has stirred up huge interest in Thursday night’s clash.

Despite the tensions between them, Diaz has plenty of respect for the champion and knows he has to penetrate the ‘American Idol’s’ slippery defense if he is to take the title away from Farmer.

“I wanted to fight the best for a World title and that’s Tevin Farmer,” said Diaz. “I started calling him out because I knew I was going to climb up the rankings. I was talking shit to him at the press conference In Las Vegas, I threw the out my hook and he caved in and fell into my net, started talking shit back and everyone wanted the fight to happen. 

“Farmer could have chosen an easier fight, but he has a lot to prove to the critics and to himself that he’s the best in the division and I feel I have a lot to prove too. He’s talked a lot, so I hope he backs it up and brings it.

“I learnt a lot from the Russell fight, knowing that I have to take more risks in there. I could have had him and won the fight, I feel like I am a better fighter than him but I let off the gas and I wasn’t opening up as much as I should have but it was a learning experience for me and it’s made me the fighter that I am today. 

“I’m hungrier than ever. I know Tevin is a very good fighter, but I have a lot at stake and it’s the opportunity of a lifetime and I have to go out and showcase to everyone that I am the next star of the sport.

“I can’t wait to shut this guy up. He’s a hell of a fighter though, don’t get me wrong. He’s a World champion for a reason, he knows how to win, he’s a talented defensive boxer, he knows how to dodge and make you miss and how to win rounds. But he’s never fought a guy as tough as me, his defenses have been against good fighters, but none of the level that I bring. I feel I am an elite level guy and I have championship pedigree and on Thursday night, it’s going to come out.

“I don’t want easy fights; I could have gone down an easier route but that wouldn’t satisfy me. I want to go out and prove that I will fight the best and I want to win a World title by taking it from the champ. Tevin is the best fighter at 130lbs now and I want to dethrone him and that would be the most satisfying way to achieve my dream.

“If he wants to bang in there that’s cool with me, that’s my cup of tea, but if wants to move around and create his angles and be slick how he is, trust me, I have got everything to capitalize and land the shots to hurt him, slow him down and land devastating shots. I don’t see it going 12 rounds, I think I will hurt him and make him feel my shots. I’m happy and ready to go 12 rounds with him though, I’m not going to go in swinging for the fence, that’s what he wants. I’ll fight a smart fight.”

Diaz and Farmer clash on a huge night of action in Super Bowl week as Demetrius Andrade (28-0 17 KOs) defends his WBO World Middleweight strap against Luke Keeler (17-2-1 5 KOs), unified World Super Bantamweight champion Daniel Roman (27-2-1, 10 KOs) defending his titles against Murodjon Akhmadaliev (7-0, 6 KOs) and YouTube stars Jake Paul and AnEsonGib clashing on their pro debuts.

Super-Middleweight contender Anthony Sims Jr (20-0 18 KOs) fights for his first pro title against Roamer Alexis Angulo (25-1 22 KOs) and a host of young talents are in action in the form of Movladdin Biyarslanov (5-0 4 KOs), Austin Williams (4-0 3 KOs), Alexis Espino (4-0 3 KOs), Otha Jones III (4-0 1 KO) and Avril Mathie (4-0-1 2 KOs).

Tevin Farmer is still craving unification fights at Super-Featherweight before a move to Lightweight as he prepares to defend his IBF title against JoJo Diaz at the Meridian at Island Gardens in Miami on Thursday January 30, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW STARTING AT $40 (PLUS FEES)
 Farmer (30-4-1 6 KOs) has enjoyed a spell as the most active World champion, with his clash in Super Bowl week his fifth defense of the title he won in Australia in August 2018.

The Philadelphia star dismissed the challenges of James Tennyson, Francisco Fonseca, Jono Carroll and Guillaume Frenois in a ten month period and now welcomes the test of Diaz (30-1 15 KOs), who is gunning to win a World title at the second attempt in a bout fueled by a war of words on social media.

The ‘American Idol’ knows his clash with Diaz is arguably the toughest examination of his championship reign to date, but the 29 year old is confident of retaining his title – and wants to add more belts at 130lbs before moving up to Lightweight.

“After I win, I think I have one or two more fights at 130lbs and then I’ll move up, especially if the big fights don’t happen,” said Farmer. “It’s not frustrating, I want the unification fights and I want to be undisputed, but as long as I am still fighting and feeding my family, I am OK with that. 

“I go out there and do my thing, I don’t listen to what people say as you can’t win, I just focus on my job and I know what that job is, I don’t need to be told – I bust my ass in the gym and we get popping. 

“Talk about overlooking people is overused as you have to plan for the future, but it’s my future and I won’t let any other fighter determine my career – you don’t want to fight me, we move on. I will make my legacy with what I do and who I fight, I don’t care what anyone else does, it’s all down to me.

“It’s going to be a hell of a fight, he’s going to come ready and I am always ready to fight. I’ve had a great camp and we’ve added some new things to what I already have so I can’t wait, it’s going to be fireworks. You can never learn enough. I’m the first in the gym and I’m the last out, I put the work in and cut no corners. 

“He started calling me out on social media, usually I don’t pay attention to people but I thought that he would be a good name on my resume, he’s a hell of a fighter and I wanted to give him a shot at the title. I knew the fight would happen, if I say the fight is going to happen, it’s going to happen.

“He’s going to come out and try to bang, throw a lot of power shots, maybe he could try to box too. But anything he brings I’m ready for it.”

Andrade and Keeler clash on a huge night of action in Super Bowl week with Tevin Farmer (30-4-1, 6 KOs) defending his IBF World Super Featherweight title against JoJo Diaz (30-1, 15 KOs), unified World Super Bantamweight champion Daniel Roman (27-2-1, 10 KOs) defending his titles against Murodjon Akhmadaliev (7-0, 6 KOs) and YouTube stars Jake Paul and AnEsonGib clashing on their pro debuts.

Super-Middleweight contender Anthony Sims Jr (20-0 18 KOs) fights for his first pro title against Roamer Alexis Angulo (25-1 22 KOs) and a host of young talents are in action in the form of Movladdin Biyarslanov (5-0 4 KOs), Austin Williams (4-0 3 KOs), Alexis Espino (4-0 3 KOs), Otha Jones III (4-0 1 KO) and Avril Mathie (4-0-1 2 KOs).

MEXICALI, MEXICO (Sept. 19, 2019): Fighters from the Diaz Jr. vs. Cuadro undercard hosted a final press conference today at the Lucerna Hotel in Mexicali, Mexico ahead of the Sept. 21 edition of Golden Boy Fight Night on Facebook Watch. The undercard is led by the co-main event between hometown favorite Leonardo “El Leon” Baez (16-2, 9 KOs), who announced his signing with Golden Boy, taking on Venezuelan contender Edixon Perez (19-4, 4 KOs) in a 10-round defense of his NABA Super Bantamweight Title. This Saturday’s fights will take place at the Auditorio del Estado in Mexicali, Mexico and will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

Below is what today’s participants had to say at the press conference:

LEONARDO BAEZ, NABA Super Bantamweight Champion:

“I’m very prepared. This fight is very important for me because I’ll be fighting right here in my hometown of Mexicali. I want to thank Golden Boy for taking this card here to my home to make the first defense of my NABA title. I’m happy, I’m motivated, and I’m prepared. ¡Arriba Mexicali!”

EDIXON PEREZ, Super Bantamweight Contender:

“I know this will be a tough fight. But I have come very well prepared. I’ve come to give a great rival against Baez on Sept. 21. I invite everyone to come out and watch this fight because I’m coming very well prepared.”

JESUS CUARDO, Super Featherweight Contender:

“I hope we have a great fight this Saturday. They may think I’m a trampoline. They may think they can use me as a stepping stone. But that’s not how things are going to go. I came to win this fight. If I lose this fight, it will be the last thing I do in my career.”

ANGEL BELTRAN, Welterweight Contender:

“We are very prepared for this fight against Dilan Loza. We know it’s a tough fight, but it’s something we have to do. This was an opportunity given to us by Gladiator Promotions and Golden Boy. I think that opportunities arise to be taken. That’s what we are going to do. We are very prepared. We are ready to give 100% in the ring. We will show who is best on Saturday.”

DILAN LOZA, Welterweight Boxer:

“We’re anxious for the fight. We are two days away from this great battle. More than anything, we are very much prepared and ready for that great day. We will go in there with everything.”

JAN SALVATIERRA, Flyweight Prospect:

“I want to thank Golden Boy for this great opportunity. I want to thank my trainers and managers the Saucedo Brothers from Westside Boxing Club for their support. I have prepared a lot for this fight. I’ve prepared to put everything on the line. You will see that on Sept. 21”

ROBERTO DIAZ, Head Matchmaker of Golden Boy:

“It’s a great honor to be here again to present a great event of Mexico vs. Venezuela. Two great fights and an undercard card full of prospects, which are the promising fighters of tomorrow. In Saturday’s undercard, we’ll have a young man who I just got to know a few months ago. He had a great victory by taking the title away from the undefeated boxer Alberto Melian. I’m talking about Leonardo Baez. He came with a lot of hunger and was set on bringing the title back home.”

“At the same time, I want to welcome Leonardo Baez to the Golden Boy family. I’m glad and honored. I know you will have a great career. I’ve heard it from many former champions. You’ll be defending your title for the first time against Edixon Perez. It’s a tough fight but we have all the confidence in you because we see in you a future world champion.”

Diaz Jr. vs. Cuadro is a 12-round fight for the WBA Gold Super Featherweight Title presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING.” The event will take place Saturday, Sept. 21 at The Auditorio del Estado in Mexicali, Mexico. The fights will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

Tickets for Diaz Jr. vs. Cuadro are on sale and are available at Zonaticket.mx.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com. Become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy Follow the conversation using #DiazJrCuadro. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing.
Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here or copying and pasting link: http://bit.ly/DiazJrCuadro into a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy for photos and videos used.

MEXICALI, MEX (Sept. 10, 2019): Former world title challenger Joseph ‘JoJo’ Diaz Jr. (29-1, 15 KOs) will return to the ring against Jesus Cuadro (18-5, 14 KOs) in the main event of the Sept. 21 edition of Golden Boy Fight Night on Facebook Watch at The Auditorio del Estado in Mexicali, Mexico. The fights will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

Diaz Jr. is a 26-year-old southpaw who represented the U.S. at the 2012 Olympic games in London. Immediately after, Diaz Jr. signed with Golden Boy and began a stellar career that has included fights against Gary Russell Jr., Jesus Rojas, and Rafael “Big Bang” Rivera. Now at 130 pounds, the native of South El Monte, Calif. is in search of another world title opportunity, but first he’ll return against a tough opponent in his second headlining event on Facebook Watch.

“I’m ready to defend my WBA Gold Title in Mexicali,” said Joseph Diaz Jr. “I want to show everyone that I am proud to be Mexican American. I’m ready to put on an entertaining performance for my raza. I’m going to put everything on the line for those who have been with me since the beginning.”

Nicknamed “The Shotgun,” Cuadro is a 33-year-old puncher who has traveled to places like Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Argentina and Russia in search of big challenges. This nomadic native of Caracas, Venezuela will now look to pull off an upset of a lifetime against Diaz Jr. in the Mexican state of Baja California.

“Joseph Diaz Jr. is an elite fighter, so we have to defeat him,” said Jesus Cuadro. “I’m a natural 130-pounder, and I’ve even fought at lightweight. That will give me an advantage because I’m going to go into the fight with a lot of strength. I can’t tell you how the fight will finish, but I can tell you that I’ll be walking away with my hand raised in victory.”

In the co-main event, Leonardo “Leon” Baez (16-2, 9 KOs) of Mexicali, Mexico will defend his NABA Super Bantamweight Title for the first time against Edison “El Cabezon” Perez (19-4, 14 KOs) of Ciudad Bolivar, Venezuela in a 10-round fight. Baez is returning after his dominant victory against two-time Olympian Alberto “Impacto” Melian.

Cristian Bielma (13-3, 5 KOs) of Mexicali, Mexico will participate in a 10-round lightweight fight against a soon-to-be-announced opponent.

Jan “Nito” Salvatierra (2-0, 1 KO) of Los Cabos, Mexico will battle Juan Borja (0-1) of La Paz, Mexico in a four-round flyweight bout.

Angel Villa (6-0, 4 KOs) of Mexicali, Mexico will return against Dilan Loza (15-2, 9 KOs) of Mexicali, Mexico in an eight-round welterweight battle.

Genaro Rodriguez (5-5-1, 1 KO) of Guadalupe Victoria, Mexico will fight Gustavo Guerrero (10-2, 3 KOs) of Mexicali, Mexico in a six-round super bantamweight fight.

Roberto Perez (4-0, 4 KOs) of Mexicali, Mexico to fight Victor Perez (1-2) of Mexicali, Mexico in a super bantamweight bout scheduled for six rounds.

Arturo Torres (4-0, 2 KOs) of Mexicali, Mexico will return against Esteban Vargas (1-1, 1 KO) of Mexicali, Mexico in a four-round super flyweight fight.

Jose Adame (2-0, 1 KO) of Mexicali, Mexico will face Jorge Rios (2-11, 1 KO) of Mexicali, Mexico in a four-round middleweight battle.

Melissa Meras (5-0, 1 KO) of Mexicali, Mexico will return against Jazmin Medina (1-0, 1 KO) of Calexico, Mexico in a four-round super flyweight bout.

Diaz Jr. vs. Cuadro is a 12-round fight for the WBA Gold Super Featherweight Title presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING.” The event will take place Saturday, Sept. 21 at The Auditorio del Estado in Mexicali, Mexico. The fights will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

Tickets for Diaz Jr. vs. Cuadro are on sale and are available at Zonaticket.mx.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com. Become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy Follow the conversation using #DiazJrCuadro. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing.

Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here or copying and pasting link: http://bit.ly/DiazJrCuadro into a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy for photos and videos used.

Follow all the action as Canelo Alvarez and Daniel Jacobs meet in a middleweight unification bout.  The action starts at 9 PM ET from the T-Mobile Arena with Lamont Roach Jr. taking on Jonathan Oquendo; Joseph Diaz Jr. battling Freddy Fonseca; Vergil Ortiz Jr. fights Mauricio Herrera.

NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED.  THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY.

Round 1: Canelo has a sleeve on his left knee..Hard right by Canelo..Jab from Jacobs to the body..

Round 2 Good jab from Canelo..Jab to the body..Jab..Hook to the body..Jacobs lands a body shot..Body by Canelo..

Round 3 Right to body from Canelo..Combination from Jacobs…Body work..

Round 4 Both warned for hitting back of the head..Hard jab from Canelo..Counter right

Round 5 Counter hook to body from Canelo…Double jab..Canelo outlanding Jacobs 60-43

Round 6  Jab from Canelo..Good right..

Round 7 Canelo trying to up his punch rate..Combination from Jacobs..Hook to body from Alvarez…Hook from Jacobs

Round 8  Uppercut and body shot from JacobsBody..Combination to body..Right from Alvarez..Straight right..Body shot..Good body shot from Jacobs

Round 9 Body shot from Canelo…Body..3 punch combination..Big left from Jacobs..

Round 10 Left from Jacobs..Hard right from Canelo..Left hook..Good right from Jacobs..Right to body and head…Canelo fighting off the ropes..Good body shots from Jacobs..

Round 11 Right from Canelo…Body work from Jacobs..Body shot and right from Alvarez..

Round 12 Jacobs falls after missing a left hook…Good uppercut from Jacobs..Hook and 3 punch combo from Canelo..3 more from Jacobs..Left from Canelo..Uppercut..Body..

Canelo landed 188-466    Jacobs was 131 – 649

115-113 twice and 116-112 for CANELO ALVAREZ

Round 1 Herrera trying to jab

Round 2 Right from Ortiz..Jab..Counter right..Hard right rocks Herrera,,,Hes hurt..RIGHT AND DOWN GOES HERRERA AT THE BELL

Round 3 Wicked left hook from Herrera…HUGE RIGHT AND DOWN GOES HERRERA…FIGHT OVER

Round 1 Good left from Diaz.  Jab..2 Body shots..Straight left

Round 2 Left from Diaz…

Round 3 Left to body from Diaz…Combination and uppercut..2 lefts..Right hook to body..

Round 4 Diaz boxing well

Round 5 Left from Diaz…Right and left..Right hook

Round 6 Hard 3 punch combination…Hard body shot…Uppercut..Left…..COMBINATION AND DOWN GOES FONSECA

Round 7 Jab from Fonseca…Diaz POUNDING AWAY AND FONSECA’S CORNER THROWS IN THE TOWEL

Round 1 Roach lands a left hook..Body work…Right from Oquendo…Hard Hook..Blood from nose of Roach

Round 2  Oquendo lands a right..Lead right from Roach..Combination..Right..

Round 3 Right from Oquendo…Body shot..Right from Roach..Right..Good body shot..

Round 4 Good body shot hurts Roach..Right from Roach

Round 5 Left to body from Oquendo..Body shot from Roach..Left..Blood from nose of Roach

Round 6

Round 7 Right from Oquendo..Right from Roach..uppercut

Round 8 OQUENDO DOCKED A POINT FOR A HEADBUTT…Good jab from Oquendo..Hook from Roach..Exchanging body shots..Hooks from Roach

Round 9 Counter right from Roach…Another..Hard hook shook Oquendo..Right..

Round 10 Oquendo lands a body shot..Good right..Left and right from Roach…Good right from Oquendo

97-92 TWICE AND 96-93 FOR LAMONT ROACH JR.

LAS VEGAS (May 1, 2019): The undercard of the spectacular Canelo vs. Jacobs card hosted a press conference featuring Vergil Ortiz Jr. (12-0, 12 KOs), Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera (24-8, 7 KOs), Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. (28-1, 14 KOs), Freddy Fonseca(26-1-1, 17 KOs), Lamont Roach Jr. (18-0-1, 7 KOs), and Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (30-5, 19 KOs).The event will take place Saturday, May 4, 2019 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

Below is what the fighters had to say at today’s press conference:

Vergil Ortiz Jr., Super Lightweight Prospect:

“I trained really hard for this fight. I was training hard before I knew I was fighting Mauricio Herrera. I was sparring 10 rounders in February. I’m more than ready for this fight. Mauricio has never been stopped. I’ve stopped everybody. I’m more than ready to go into this fight. I’m prepared. Mauricio has been in there with Danny Garcia and Jose Benavidez, who I do believe he beat, and in my eyes he is a world champion. We all know who won. But those guys weren’t me. He didn’t fight me, he didn’t fight Vergil Ortiz. We’re going to see how the fight plays out May 4th.

“About my dad. I really wouldn’t be here without him. He didn’t have the best childhood growing up and he made sure he did everything in his power that I did. I don’t think his dad was there for him when he grew up but he made sure he was there for me. My mom wasn’t there. He played both parts. That’s something you don’t see all the time. Usually it’s the mom who stays with the kid. My dad is the one who stayed with me, was there for me. Thank you dad, I love you.”

“On a more serious note, I can’t wait to eat tacos after this fight. I’m hungry. Other than that, hopefully after this fight, I get a world title shot soon. There’s a couple fights out there. Like, Maurice Hooker, we’re both with DAZN. So, Eddie, make the fight with Maurice Hooker happen please? We’re both from Dallas, we’re both on DAZN, I grew up watching Maurice Hooker on Golden Gloves, he knows me as well. In a couple years, I’ll take on Errol Spence too. I don’t mean that like I’m going to go through everybody. I just believe in my ability.”

Shouting out to Miguel Cotto in the crowd: “I want to thank Cotto. He was one of my favorite fighters growing up, my dad based my style off of Cotto. I don’t know if he knew that.”

Mauricio Herrera, Former Interim WBA Super Featherweight Champion:

“This fight is really motivating. As many of you know my career has gone through ups and downs. In 2014 when I had fought Danny and felt I’d been robbed and then had the chance to win a WBA interim title which I won, and then later that same year, I got robbed again. That really left me in a bad place. I didn’t care for boxing and I was unmotivated. A lot of the fights you see where they’re close and I look bad in, it’s because I’m unmotivated in those fights. I’m slowly getting my motivation back.”

“This kid Ortiz has 12 wins and 12 knockouts, undefeated. On Saturday I’m really motivated. I do want to bring my career back. I trained really hard. You’re going to see I’m not an old lion. And if I’m an old lion, I’m a hungry lion. Come Saturday, you’re going to see a great show. Don’t tune me out. Saturday, you’ll see the Maestro comeback.”

Joseph Diaz Jr., Super Featherweight Contender:

“I’m going to go out there and showcase that I’m the next superstar in boxing. Freddy, I appreciate you coming down from Nicaragua but come Saturday night you ain’t gonna get that victory bro. You’re going to go home sad with a couple black eyes. I’m very, very focused. I’ve been training my ass off. 2018, I dealt with a lot of adversity. My dream is to become a world champion, and 2018 really hurt my heart. I was really at rock bottom. Just being focused and having good family supporting me through the rough times, it really meant a lot to me, it made me more motivated, it made me more into a savage and into a beast. I’ve been training my ass off and I’m very determined to turn into a champion by the end of the year. Come May 4th, I’m going to show you that I’m the real deal.”

“Everybody says I have a sno-cone head now but it’s all good.”

Freddy Fonseca, Super Featherweight Contender:

“I know the challenge I have in front of me, I know that JoJo is the favorite, but we’re coming in the best conditions to ensure victory for Nicaragua. I’m very happy for this opportunity because it’s my opportunity to show that I will be a world champion by beating JoJo Diaz.”

Eric Gomez, President of Golden Boy:

On Vergil Ortiz Jr.: “Vergil Ortiz is a top prospect in boxing. I’ve said it before. There’s other good prospects out there but the skills this kid has, I haven’t seen in a long time and I’ve been promoting boxing for 20 years. He’s incredible, he can do it all. This is a tough test. This a real test for him. I was a little worried when Robert Diaz came into my office and said Mauricio will fight him. I was worried but I believe in his abilities. In order to beat Mauricio Herrera and to prove he’s a tough prospect moving into a contender status, he’s going to have to be victorious. This is the biggest test of his career. Where else, a better place, than the T-Mobile Arena here in Vegas. We’ll see if he’s ready to shine or not.”

On Mauricio Herrera: “Mauricio Herrera is a tough, tough veteran. He’s fought everyone in this sport. He gave Danny Garcia life and death in Puerto Rico. He’s been doing that for a long time. You name it, he’s fought the who’s who in boxing. He’s here to prove he can still compete at a very high level. He’s fighting a tough, tough prospect that’s coming up. He’s faced every kind of style, every kind of fighter in different positions, world champions, prospects, contenders. He’s ready to put on a show on Saturday.

On JoJo Diaz Jr.: “He’s ready to fight for a title, but he’s gotta get past Saturday’s test. There are a few options for him if he gets past this test, and we feel that for the next fight, he should be able to fight for the title. There are a few champions there lurking around.”

Lamont Roach Jr., WBO International Super Featherweight Champion:

“The time is now for those who haven’t seen me. This is the type of opponent that we’ve been waiting for, for a long time. This is where we are going to capitalize and show that we are ready for a world title in the 130-pound division. This is not the first time I’ve faced a veteran and probably not the last time. We trained our asses off in camp, we had good sparring, good strength and conditioning camp, trained mentally, and I’m just ready to be a world titlist and it starts with Saturday night.”

Jonathan Oquendo, NABO Super Featherweight Champion:

“This will be a unification fight because I have the NABO Super Featherweight belt while Lamont Roach has the WBO International Super Featherweight belt. The whole world knows all the hard wok I put in for this Saturday. We know the quality of fighter that he is, we know the capabilities he has. But I like challenge. He likes to fight, I like to fight, and we’re going to make sure we have a great battle and a victory for Puerto Rico.”

Hector Soto, Vice President of Miguel Cotto Promotions:

“This Saturday, we’re going to have a big fight between Jonathan Oquendo and Lamont Roach. This will be a unification fight between international titles because Jonathan Oquendo is the proud owner of the NABO Super Featherweight belt, and after that, he’ll be looking for a world title. He has done all the necessary preparation to ensure triumph and a victory for all of Puerto Rico.”

John Ryder, Interim WBA Super Middleweight Contender:

“With Lemieux, it was a big upset but we got a great replacement in Bilal Akkawy. I think we’re all in for a real treat come Saturday night.”

Bilal Akkawy, Super Middleweight Contender:

“This is a big opportunity. It’s an opportunity for me to prove myself. It’s a world title fight so there’s no way I would turn down a fight like that. I’m going to make the most out of the opportunity come Saturday.”

Eddie Hearn, Managing Director of Matchroom Sport:

“This is a big fight for the mandatory position of Callum Smith. It’s a huge opportunity for John Ryder. He’s turned his career in extraordinary fashion. We know what a tough fight this is. We knew David Lemieux was a tough fight but we know Bilal Akkawy comes in as a young man, extremely hungry, very dangerous, and this is going to be a very explosive fight.”

Sadam Ali, Welterweight Contender:

“I’m excited for this fight. It’s on a big card. 26-1 underdog? That’s crazy! I’m excited, ready for any opponent, any style that comes to me. I understand it’s a big opportunity for him, he’s been waiting for a moment like this, I know he’s coming strong, but I’m excited to go out there and shine. I’m ready to go.”

Anthony Young, Welterweight Contender:

“As a person, all I can ask for is opportunity. Getting the opportunity to fight a former world champion in Sadam Ali, who defeated a legend. They got me 26-1 underdog, so if you’re looking to win some money, put it on me. Sadam is Muslim, I’m muslim, that’s my brother, but Saturday, one of us has got to go, and it ain’t gonna be me.”

Joseph Markowski, Executive Vice President of DAZN North America:

“Saturday night is not just important because we’re unifying titles in the middleweight division. When you put on events of this magnitude, you know you will have a significant audience and a perfect opportunity to introduce future headliners to sports fans. At DAZN, we’re invested in the sport of boxing – not just its biggest names. And while we put great emphasis and resource into fights like May 4, we put on more than 100 fight nights a year and know how important it is to build the next generation.”

“We are committed to these boxers, making sure we broadcast their bouts so fans can witness their talents as they ascend to becoming main event fighters.”

Canelo vs. Jacobs is a 12-round fight for the WBC, WBA, Lineal, Ring Magazine and IBF Middleweight World Titles presented by Golden Boy in association with Matchroom Boxing. Ortiz vs. Herrera is a 10-round welterweight fight presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING” and Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The event will take place Saturday, May 4, 2019 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

Tickets for Canelo vs. Jacobs are on sale now and are priced at $2,505, $1,505, $1,205, $805, $605, $405, $305 and $200, not including applicable service charges and taxes. There will be a limit of 10 per person at the $2,505, $1,505, $1,205, $805, $605, $405, $305 and $200 price levels. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-
7849). Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.t-mobilearena.com
or www.axs.com.

For more information,visit www.goldenboypromotions.com,
http://www.matchroomboxing.com, and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Canelo, @DanielJacobsTKO, @MatchRoomBoxing, and @DAZN_USA. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing,
www.facebook.com/SaulCaneloAlvarez, www.facebook.com/MatchroomBoxing
and https://www.facebook.com/DAZNUSA/. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @Canelo, @DanielJacobsTKO, @MatchroomBoxing and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #CaneloJacobs.

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link http://bit.ly/May4DAZNinto a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy for any photo and/or video usage.

LAS VEGAS (May 1, 2019): Following today’s final press conference, Canelo vs. Jacobs undercard fighters staged an open workout for fans at the MGM Resort and Casino. Those participating included Vergil Ortiz Jr. (12-0, 12 KOs), Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera (24-8, 7 KOs), Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. (28-1, 14 KOs), Freddy Fonseca (26-1-1, 17 KOs), Lamont Roach Jr. (18-0-1, 7 KOs), Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (30-5, 19 KOs), and Sadam “World Kid” Ali (27-2, 14 KOs). Canelo vs. Jacobs will take place on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

Below is what the fighters had to say at today’s workout:

Vergil Ortiz Jr., Super Lightweight Prospect:

On fighting on the Canelo-Jacobs undercard: “This is a dream come true. I am Canelo’s co-main event. I am the only one who can say that, other than my opponent. But it’s just us and this is a big opportunity. I prepare for every fight like it will be my hardest fight. In fact, this probably will be my hardest fight, but I am ready to go. I am fighting in front of a bigger audience now that I am in the co-main event. Fighting on DAZN, a lot of people will be watching. I am excited for this opportunity. I am feeling good. I feel hyped up. Usually I am tired but I am not this time. It is weird. But I am ready to go.”

Mauricio Herrera, Welterweight Contender

On fighting on the Canelo-Jacobs undercard: “I have been here before, but it is always an honor to be on a Canelo undercard. And the co-main event is a blessing as you have more eyes on you. It is an honor to have this opportunity. What better spot than fighting on Cinco de Mayo weekend in Vegas, on the undercard of the biggest fight of the year? It’s amazing and I am excited for Saturday.”

On facing an undefeated fighter: “I have fought undefeated fighters. It might be a young lion against an old lion but we are two lions and we are going to go toe-to-toe. You will see this lion very hungry and you will see me go get it. He will be the aggressor and I will do my thing like I always do. I will pull out all of my tricks and get the win.”

Joseph Diaz Jr., Super Featherweight Contender

On fighting on the Canelo-Jacobs undercard: “It means a lot to me. I want to thank everyone who came out here for it. It is a huge weekend for us Latinos. I am so happy to be a part of this huge event. Viva Mexico, let’s get it, baby.

On trash talking leading up to this fight: “I really feel this way. I am on a whole different level. Last year I had two chances to be World Champion, but I didn’t get it. It is my ultimate goal to be a champion and I am ready. I feel a lot stronger at this weight class. Freddy tried to flinch at me and scare me yesterday, but I am a beast and I will show him that. Believe that.

On his preparation: “I am a lot stronger. I am more confident in my abilities now than I was before. Now I am on a different level. I am on that elite level, the level with guys like Tevin Farmer. I am ready. And this guy Freddy is good but he is not on my level and I am going to prove that on Saturday. Underestimate me with this hair color, it’s cool, because I will see him Saturday and show him who I am in the ring.”

Freddy Fonseca, Super Featherweight Contender

On the trash talk leading up to the fight: “They may say JoJo is the favorite but in the ring there will be nothing to save him. We all want to win. He, like me, wants to win but on Saturday I will be the one to walk away with the win. He is a great fighter but I have a great game plan and we are going to get the victory for Nicaragua.”

On fighting on the Canelo-Jacobs undercard: “This is a dream for every boxer to be here. I am grateful for this opportunity and to everyone who made this possible.”

Lamont Roach Jr., WBO International Super Featherweight Champion

On his preparation: “Be ready for fireworks. Mentally, I have been preparing. I am training my body and my mind. I want to get out of the ring with the win, no questions asked. I have a great game plan and I can’t wait to see it all unfold beautifully in the ring on Saturday night.”

On fighting on the Canelo-Jacobs undercard: “I am ready, I am thankful for the opportunity to be here. I want to put on a show on the biggest stage. It means a lot to be here. I want to thank Golden Boy and my whole team. I am appreciative to everyone who made this possible and I want to show the world who I am.”

Jonathan Oquendo, NABO Super Featherweight Champion

On what this moment means: “I am very happy. I am very content. This is the tenth time to have this opportunity to fight here at MGM in Las Vegas. It is a blessing. I am a believer in God. This is my second opportunity to win a world title and I am here for that very reason. I believe I am here to walk away a world champion.”

On fighting on the Canelo-Jacobs undercard: “It is very exciting. I want to thank Golden Boy for this opportunity, and I am happy to be here fighting at this huge event. There are a lot of fans of mine and boxing fans in Puerto Rico and I am excited that they can watch on DAZN. I hope they all tune in to watch me perform.”

Sadam Ali, Welterweight Contender

On his mindset going into his fight on Saturday: “I am excited, ready to perform. There is a mega fight coming this Saturday and I am excited to see what happens in the Canelo vs. Jacobs fight but first I will go put on a show and get a win. I know he is going to come prepared, but I have been preparing hard for this in the gym, too. I have been working on my speed and power because you can have all that power and speed, but you need to know how to use it. I am ready to go.”

Canelo vs. Jacobs is a 12-round fight for the WBC, WBA, Lineal, Ring Magazine and IBF Middleweight World Titles presented by Golden Boy in association with Matchroom Boxing. Ortiz vs. Herrera is a 10-round welterweight fight presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING” and Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The event will take place Saturday, May 4, 2019 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

Tickets for Canelo vs. Jacobs are on sale now and are priced at $2,505, $1,505, $1,205, $805, $605, $405, $305 and $200, not including applicable service charges and taxes. There will be a limit of 10 per person at the $2,505, $1,505, $1,205, $805, $605, $405, $305 and $200 price levels. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-
7849). Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.t-mobilearena.com
or www.axs.com.

For more information,visit www.goldenboypromotions.com,
http://www.matchroomboxing.com, and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Canelo, @DanielJacobsTKO, @MatchRoomBoxing, and @DAZN_USA. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing,
www.facebook.com/SaulCaneloAlvarez, www.facebook.com/MatchroomBoxing
and https://www.facebook.com/DAZNUSA/. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @Canelo, @DanielJacobsTKO, @MatchroomBoxing and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #CaneloJacobs.

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link http://bit.ly/May4DAZNinto a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy for any photo and/or video usage.

LAS VEGAS (April 10, 2019): David Lemieux (40-4, 34 KOs) will make his 168-pound debut when he takes on John “The Gorilla” Ryder (27-4, 15 KOs) in the scheduled 12-round co-main event of Canelo vs. Jacobs. The card will also feature the returns of Vergil Ortiz Jr., Pablo Cesar “El Demoledor” Cano, Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr., Sadam “World Kid” Ali and Lamont Roach Jr., in separate bouts. The event will take place Saturday, May 4 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

“There comes a time when every fighter must move up in weight, and now is that time for David Lemieux,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “Lemieux was the hardest-hitting puncher in the 160-pound division, and I’m absolutely certain he will be the biggest puncher at 168 pounds. John Ryder will be in for a tough fight on May 4. Also, this undercard will feature some of our brightest stars, including Vergil Ortiz Jr., who with only 12 fights will face a tough veteran in Mauricio Herrera. Golden Boy and DAZN have crafted an excellent night of action, so don’t miss out on this one!”

Lemieux, 30, was last seen on the televised pay-per-view undercard of Canelo vs. GGG 2 when he scored a first-round knockout victory against Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan. The native of Montreal, Canada promises to be stronger than ever in his super middleweight debut.

“I’ve seen [John] Ryder fight,” said David Lemieux. “He’s a credible rival, but I’m going to make a statement out of what I’m going to do with him. At 168, I’m going to be the strongest that I’ve ever been.”

Ryder is a 30-year-old native of London who is the No. 1 contender for the WBA Super Middleweight Title. Ryder has faced tough opposition, including a close fight against Rocky Fielding and a tough battle against Billy Joe Saunders. The “Gorilla” is coming off a seventh-round technical knockout win against previously undefeated Andrey Sirotkin, and he’ll look to retain his shot at the title with a win against Lemieux.

“I’m fully focused on the fight with David Lemieux, but obviously there’s a massive pot of gold for the winner,” said John Ryder. “There’s the potential for a fight with Canelo or a fight with Callum Smith, which are both huge. Lemieux is a big puncher if you stand in front of him. I’m a boxer-fighter. I’ll box him at times and fight him at other times when it suits me. Our fighting styles are sure to gel for a great fight. I’m expecting to win and to win well. I’m there to keep my mandatory position.”

“We can’t wait for David to show that he can be a powerhouse in the super middleweight division. What better way to demonstrate this than by fighting the No. 1 contender in John Ryder!,” said Camille Estephan, President of Eye of the Tiger Management.

“This is a great fight on a great night of boxing,” said Eddie Hearn, Managing Director of Matchroom Sport. “John Ryder has been on a tremendous run, and now takes to the big stage in Las Vegas with the dangerous David Lemieux. It’s a huge fight for both with the winner being mandatory challenger for Callum Smith, and I fully expect that to be John Ryder.”

The undercard for this explosive co-main event will be filled with Golden Boy’s current and future stars.

Vergil Ortiz Jr. (12-0, 12 KOs) will face the biggest test of his career when he takes on Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera (24-8, 7 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight battle. Ortiz Jr. is moving to welterweight for this fight only, and if he’s successful in this tough challenge, he’ll be on the fast track to a world title at 140 pounds.

Pablo Cesar “El Demoledor” Cano (32-7-1, 22 KOs) will defend his WBC International Silver Super Lightweight Title against Michael “The Artist” Perez (25-3-2, 11 KOs) in a 10-round fight. Cano will return after his dominant knockout victory against former three-division world champion Jorge “El Niño de Oro” Linares.

Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. (28-1, 14 KOs) of South El Monte, Calif. will fight against a soon-to-be-announced opponent in a 12-round battle for the vacant WBA Gold Super Featherweight Title. Diaz Jr. will return after a dominant victory against rugged warrior Charles Huerta.

Sadam “World Kid” Ali (27-2, 14 KOs) will return in a 10-round clash for the vacant USNBC Silver Welterweight Title against Anthony Young (20-2, 7 KOs) of Atlantic City, N.J.

Lamont Roach Jr. (18-0-1, 7 KOs) of Washington, D.C., will unify his WBO International Super Featherweight Title in a 10-round battle against NABO Super Featherweight Champion Jonathan Oquendo (30-5, 19 KOs) of Bayamon, Puerto Rico. The winner of this bout will earn the No. 1 spot for the WBO Super Featherweight World Title.

Alexis Espino (1-0, 1 KO) of Las Vegas, Nevada will participate in a four-round super middleweight fight against a soon-to-be announced opponent.

Canelo vs. Jacobs is a 12-round fight for the WBC, WBA, Lineal, Ring Magazine and IBF Middleweight World Titles presented by Golden Boy in association with Matchroom Boxing. Lemieux vs. Ryder is a 12-round super middleweight battle presented by Golden Boy in association with Eye of the Tiger Management and Matchroom Boxing. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING” and Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The event will take place Saturday, May 4, 2019 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

Tickets for Canelo vs. Jacobs are on sale now and are priced at $2,505, $1,505, $1,205, $805, $605, $405, $305, and not including applicable service charges and taxes. There will be a limit of 10 per person at the $2,505, $1,505, $1,205, $805, $605, $405, and $305 price levels. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849). Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.t-mobilearena.com or www.axs.com.

For more information,visit www.goldenboypromotions.com,
http://www.matchroomboxing.com, and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Canelo, @DanielJacobsTKO, @MatchRoomBoxing, and @DAZN_USA. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing,
www.facebook.com/SaulCaneloAlvarez, www.facebook.com/MatchroomBoxing
and https://www.facebook.com/DAZNUSA/. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy,
@Canelo, @DanielJacobsTKO, @MatchroomBoxing and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #CaneloJacobs.

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link http://bit.ly/May4DAZN into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy for any photo and/or video usage.

Joseph Diaz, Jr. won a 10-round unanimous decision over Charles Huerta in a super featherweight bout.

Diaz, 129.8 lbs of South El Monte, CA won by scores of 99-91 on all cards, and is now 28-1.  Huerta, 130 lbs of Paramount, CA is 20-6.

Adrian Estrella won a 10-round split decision over previously undefeated Oscar Duarte in a lightweight bout.

Estrella was cut over the right eye in round six.

Estrella won two cards by scores of 98-92 and 96-94. Duarte won a card 97-93.

Estrella, 135 lbs of Nuevo Leon, MEX is now 29-3. Duarte, 135 lbs of Parral, MEX is 15-1-1.

Taureano Johnson and Fernando Castaneda battled to an eight-round draw in a middleweight contest.

Each fighter won a card 77-75 and a 3rd card read even at 76-76.

Jihnson, 163,2 lbs of Nassau, BAH is now 20-2-1.  Catstaneda, 164 lbs of Aguascalientes, MEX is 26-13-1.

Former world title challenger Azat Hovhannisyan stopped Lolito Sonson in round five of a scheduled ten-round super bantamweight bout.

In round one, Hovhannisyan was deducted a point for a low blow. In round five, Hovhannisyan dropped Sonsona with a right to the body. Hovhannisyan sent Sonsona down again with a follow up flurry, and the bout was stopped at 2:23.

Hovhannisyan, 121.8 lbs of Los Angeles, is 16-3 with 13 knockouts. Sonsona, 122 lbs of General Santos City, PHL is 22-3-4.

LOS ANGELES (Aug 11, 2018): The inaugural edition of Golden Boy Fight Night on Facebook Watch kicked off with a bang as Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. (27-1, 14 KOs) of South El Monte, Calif. defeated Puerto Rican warrior and WBA Featherweight World Champion
Jesus Rojas (16-1-2, 19 KOs) via 12-round unanimous decision in an exciting main event from a sold-out Avalon Hollywood. Though he struggled to hurt Rojas, Diaz Jr. was more active in every round, which earned him the decision win with scores of 116-112, 115-113, and 117-111. Rojas remains champion despite the loss per WBA rules.

“We won, but unfortunately I don’t get to come home a world champion because of weight issues,” said Joseph Diaz Jr. “I switched my diet this camp because I feel like my body has been changing, and I did something I never usually do to try to make weight. That is what made my body respond in a scary way with arm tingling and just feeling super fatigued. If the opportunity comes, I still want a fight at 126 pounds with any of the big guys, but if that doesn’t happen I wouldn’t be opposed to moving up to 130. Rojas came to fight. I don’t think people expected for this to be a tough fight, but it was. I would be willing to get a rematch with him.”

“It was a great fight. Diaz came to fight. We gave a fight that the people deserved,” said
Jesus Rojas. “I feel I was more active and that I threw punches. He was tired, and I was able to connect more with punches. The judges are the ones who make the call. One can see it one way, while another sees it another way. The judges make the call. I proved myself again the best. He wasn’t the great Joseph Diaz that you saw against other fighters when he was in the ring with me. I still feel I’m one of the top 126-pounders in the world.”

In tonight’s co-main event, Golden Boy Promotions presented yet another battle between two of its undefeated prospects as Jonathan “Thunder” Navarro (14-0, 7 KOs) of East Los Angeles, Calif. defeated Damon “No Smilin'” Allen Jr. (15-1-1, 5 KOs) via stunning seventh-round technical knockout. Navarro was the stronger and more accurate of the two fighters, landing short right hands before forcing the fight to be stopped at 1:33 of the aforementioned round.

“I feel great. Stepping up in class really made the difference,” said Jonathan Navarro. “He [Allen] took everything out of me. He’s a prospect, and he’s hungry, and he brought a lot out of me. I knew that once he felt my power, he would be out. I’m ready for whatever is next. I have to talk to my dad, my manager and Golden Boy Promotions, but I’m ready for anything.”

“It just wasn’t my night. He [Navarro] had the better class and plan, and we just came up short,” said Damon Allen Jr. “We’re both top prospects, and we knew it was going to be a war in there. I failed to keep my hands up and let him take control of me. I have to go back to the drawing board and see what’s next. I’ll be back – we just have to re-evaluate some things.”

Ferdinand Kerobyan (10-0, 5 KOs) of North Hollywood, Calif. scored a dominant six-round unanimous decision won against a very tough Jose Rivera (6-3, 4 KOs) of Manchester, Conn. in a middleweight bout. Kerobyan was victorious with three identical scores of 60-54.

“I came to give a great performance to the fans and to my family,” said Ferdinand Keroyban. “I feel so blessed to be a part of the first Facebook Watch show, and I hope my performance tonight shows that I’m capable of taking advantage of these opportunities. I wanted to get the knockout, but I am pleased with the result we got tonight. He was tough, and we were able to get some good exchanges. I look forward to jumping back into the ring soon.”

Aaron “Silencer” McKenna (5-0, 3 KOs) of Monaghan, Ireland defeated Rolando Mendevil (6-4, 4 KOs) of Sinaloa, Mexico via unanimous decision in a four-round welterweight clash. McKenna won with three scores of 40-36.

“Being a part of the Golden Boy Fight Night on Facebook Watch was amazing. I’m glad that I get to be a part of boxing history, and that my family from back home can watch,” said
Aaron McKenna. “I thought that we did great – I went in there with an opponent with more experience than me who was ready to go in. I learned a lot from those four full rounds. I’m looking forward to going back into the ring with an opponent Golden Boy and my team think would be a good fit for me.”

Jose Vargas (5-0, 4 KOs) scored a third-round technical knockout victory against Leonard Reyes (7-18, 3 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico in a scheduled four-round featherweight battle. The fight was halted at :36 of the aforementioned round.

“I’m barely starting out, so everything I do still needs work,” said Jose Vargas.”I’m glad we got the knock out, and now it’s back to the drawing board to prepare for the next one.”

Rojas vs. Diaz Jr. was a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Universal Promotions. The event was sponsored by Tecate,”THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy, “Never Stop, Never Settle.” The fights took place on Saturday, August 11, 2018 at Avalon Hollywood. The action was be streamed live on Facebook Watch in the U.S. and globally on the Golden Boy Fight Night Facebook Page. Fans can catch all the fights by following the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.avalonhollywood.com.
Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @AvalonHollywood. Become a fan on Facebookat www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing and
https://www.Facebook.com/AvalonHollywood/Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya and @AvalonHollywood. Follow the conversation using #GBPonFB and #RojasDiazJr

Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here or by copying and pasting link: http://bit.ly/RojasDiazJr into a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for photos and videos used.

https://www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyFN/videos/702848840093026/

LOS ANGELES (Aug. 9, 2018): Golden Boy Promotions is excited to announce that Chairman and CEO, Oscar De La Hoya, has assembled an all-star broadcast team for the brand-new Golden Boy Fight Night series on Facebook Watch. The broadcast team will feature Todd Grisham as its blow-by-blow commentator, with celebrity entertainer Mario Lopez serving to drive color commentary and boxing analysis. The two-man booth will be supported by the show’s social media reporter Rosci Diaz. Diaz will provide fighter and celebrity interviews as well as updates from Facebook and Instagram fans via a fully integrated touchscreen monitor.

“I have been mining the media landscape for the past several years to find a broadcast and platform partner to change up the sport and to create a series that delivers fans across the world a new and engaging spin on the great sport of boxing,” said Oscar De La Hoya. “This collaboration with Facebook has been nothing short of amazing. Their team has the all the tools to clearly separate a Golden Boy boxing show from any other combat sport show on the market.”

Oscar De La Hoya, Executive Producer
De La Hoya serves as the Executive Producer for this new and innovative series and plans to deliver a product with global appeal. The first fight will take place at Avalon Hollywood and actors, sports figures and major influencers will be in attendance. De La Hoya envisions an intimate club atmosphere, featuring eclectic music curated by DJ Susie de Los Santos, a renowned DJ who has toured across the world and has made several television appearances. Jeremiah Gallegos will be the night’s ring announcer after winning Golden Boy’s Next Gen Ring Announcer contest.

Todd Grisham
Blow-By-Blow Commentator
Todd Grisham is an experienced combat sports commentator who spent six years working at ESPN in a variety of roles including hosting “SportsCenter,” “MMA Live,” and “Friday Night Fights.” Prior to joining ESPN in 2011, Grisham worked as a professional wrestling commentator for World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). During his tenure with the WWE, he worked as the play-by-play commentator for Smackdown and then WWE NXT. Grisham also served as the play-by-play commentator for the ECW brand and won the 2008 Slammy Award for Announce Team of the Year. In 2007, Grisham was named the host for Fox Soccer Channel’s Major League Soccer broadcasts, working alongside Christopher Sullivan for pre-game and post-game coverage of the network’s Saturday night broadcasts until 2010. His first professional job in the television industry was with KTVO of Ottumwa, Iowa, where he worked for a year and a half. He was a sportscaster for KOLD-TV Tucson for approximately five years before moving to the WWE as an announcer.

Mario Lopez
Color Commentator
Mario Lopez is the consummate entertainer. He is the host of the Emmy Award winning show “Extra,” and the national iHeart radio programs “On with Mario Lopez” and “iHeartRadio Countdown with MarioLopez.” Lopez is a constant presence on the pop culture scene with a legion of fans across the board. Actor, NYT Best Selling author, producer and host, Lopez’s prolific career has made him one of the most sought-after personalities in entertainment today. Some of Lopez’s acting credits include Jane the Virgin, Nip/Tuck and Saved by the Bell, among many others. In 2008, Mario Lopez made his Broadway debut as Zach in the revival of A Chorus Line where he met his wife Courtney. Mario and Courtney have two adorable kids, Gia and Dominic and two dogs, Julio and Juanita.

Rocsi Diaz
Social Media Reporter
As the former co-host of BET’s ultra-popular mega music show, 106 & Park, Rocsi Diaz interviewed everyone from Lady Gaga to Eminem. As a co-host and daily correspondent on CBS’s Entertainment Tonight, Rocsi was known for setting the tone for what’s hot in music, movies and entertainment. She reached 85 million homes worldwide during her time with 106 & Park, and has since gone to host MTV’s Dating Naked, and Hollywood Today Live. With a massive social media presence, Rocsi reaches millions of followers across all platforms. Currently, she can be seen co-hosting People TV’s Chatter.
Rojas vs. Diaz Jr. is a 12-round fight for the WBA Featherweight World Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Universal Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate,”THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy, “Never Stop, Never Settle.” The fights will take place Saturday, August 11, 2018 at Avalon Hollywood. Doors to the event open at 4:00 p.m., and the first fight begins at 5:00 p.m. The action will be streamed live on Facebook Watch in the U.S. and globally on the Golden Boy Fight Night Facebook Page beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Fans can catch all the fights by following the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

Limited tickets for Rojas vs. Diaz Jr. are still available and are priced at $40, not including applicable service charges and taxes. Tickets are available for purchase at www.goldenboytickets.com and the Golden Boy Promotions Facebook page.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.avalonhollywood.com.
Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @AvalonHollywood. Become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing and
https://www.Facebook.com/AvalonHollywood/Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya and @AvalonHollywood. Follow the conversation using #GBPonFB and #RojasDiazJr

Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here or by copying and pasting link: http://bit.ly/RojasDiazJr into a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for photos and videos used.

NORWALK, CALIF. (Aug. 2, 2018): Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. (26-1, 14 KOs) hosted a media workout today at Legendz Boxing in Norwalk, Calif. in preparation for his battle for the WBA Featherweight World Title currently held by Puerto Rican warrior Jesus Rojas (16-1-2, 19 KOs) in the inaugural edition of Golden Boy Fight Night on Saturday, Aug. 11. The 12-round battle will be Diaz, Jr.’s second opportunity at a world title in the stacked featherweight division.

Part of the Golden Boy Fight Night undercard also participated in the workout. In the co-main event, Jonathan “Thunder” Navarro (14-0, 7 KOs) will face Damon “No Smilin'” Allen Jr. (15-0-1, 5 KOs) in a highly competitive battle between two undefeated Golden Boy Promotions prospects. Ferdinand “Lucky Boy” Kerobyan (9-0, 5 KOs) of North Hollywood, Calif. will battle across a scheduled six rounds of welterweight action against a soon-to-be-announced opponnent. Aaron “Silencer” McKenna (4-0, 3 KOs) of Monaghan, Ireland will participate in a four-round 147-pound fight against Sinaloa, Mex.’s Rolando Mendivil (10-4, 3 KOs).

Hector “El Finito” Tanajara, Jr. (14-0, 5 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas, will return in the co-main event of the Aug. 10 edition of LA FIGHT CLUB against Emmanuel Morales (7-2, 4 KOs) of Caguas, Puerto Rico.

Here’s what the fighters had to say at today’s media workout:

JOSEPH “JOJO” DIAZ JR., Featherweight Contender:
“Everyone was there during the Gary Russell Jr. fight. Oscar De La Hoya, my family and my team was there. There was no pressure. I just knew that it was the opportunity I had been waiting for my entire career. I knew I had to get it done. I knew it was in his hometown and that there were going to be a lot of his fans cheering him on. Unfortunately, I didn’t come out on top. I’ve watched the tape about 100 times. I looked at all the mistakes I made. I saw that if I would have just been more aggressive, started off earlier and used my jab that the outcome would have been different. I would be world champion right now. Things didn’t go as planned, but it was a lesson learned. I have the opportunity to fight for a world title again, and I can’t let this opportunity get past me. I’ve been training my butt off, and I’m going to walk away with the title around my waist.

Right now, I have a whole different mindset. We have a whole different training camp. On August 11, I will become world champion. Jesus Rojas is a dangerous fighter. He’s coming off two great wins and stopped both of them. He constantly applies pressure and has great conditioning. He’s going to keep on coming forward. My father and I know what he’s capable of and what he’s going to do. We’re working on my conditioning so that I do not get tired and so that I can be very active, throw a lot of shots and engage when he engages. It’s going to be an action-packed fight.”

JONATHAN “THUNDER” NAVARRO, Super Lightweight Prospect:
“This is going to be a tough fight for both of us, but me being a natural 140-pounder will be a factor. 140 pounds is the normal weight I fight at, and Damon Allen Jr. will be moving up from 135 pounds. Even though that’s only five pounds, that’s a lot in the sport of boxing, especially when you’re the smaller fighter. What makes Damon Allen a dangerous opponent is his speed and movement. To me, that’s all I see, and it’s not going to be a big deal. This fight will be a crossroads fight because we are both undefeated prospects. It’s going to be a hard fight. We’re going to give the fans a great fight. When we got word of this fight, I never hesitated to take it. The moment they told me his name I got happy because I know it will be an important fight. It excited me and made me want to train even harder. Not many young prospects get to showcase their talent against another fellow prospect this early in their career.”

FERDINAND KEROBYAN, Super Welterweight Prospect:
“I wouldn’t say I look for the knockout. But when the knockout presents itself, I never let back and give it my all to give the fans an exciting fight. I’ve been focusing on everything. I’ve been working on my craft. I’ve been working on getting my speed and power to work together as a unit. I’m looking forward to getting another win in front of my fans. I expect a big crowd at every fight because I have a very good fan base. It doesn’t matter how far I go, I know they will be there. I’m truly blessed to have them, and I want to give them a great show every time.”

AARON”SILENCER” MCKENNA, Welterweight Prospect:
“I’m very excited to be fighting on Facebook and on Golden Boy’s first-ever broadcast. I’ve had a great camp, and I’m ready to put on a great show for the fans in attendance and fans watching on Facebook. I always try to make my fights as exciting as I can for fans. I always try to put a good show and go for the knockout. Expect fireworks in this fight. I feel stronger in this fight than in previous fights.”

HECTOR “EL FINITO” TANAJARA, JR., Lightweight Prospect:
“I didn’t stop training after my last fight, so I’m feeling way better than in my last camp. I’m in great shape, and I’ve been doing 10 and 12 rounds of sparring. I’ve been working with Jonathan Navarro, and we’re helping each other in this camp. For my last fight, I knew he [Roger Gutierrez] was tough. You could tell from the weigh-ins that it was going to be heated. But things like that motivate me. When I fight good opponents, I look better. It helped me out because it showed what I could do and what I can still show I can do. The last fight gave me a lot of confidence. There were people saying that he was going to beat me or that he was stronger. It gave me a lot of confidence because there were even some rounds that I felt were easy. It gave me a lot of confidence. For this camp, we’ve been working on being busier and being aggressive. I’ve been working to get the knockout, and this fight will show that.”

###

Rojas vs. Diaz Jr. is a 12-round fight for the WBA Featherweight World Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Universal Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate,”THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy, “Never Stop, Never Settle.” The fights will take place Saturday, August 11, 2018 at Avalon Hollywood. The action will be streamed live on Facebook Watch in the U.S. and globally on the Golden Boy Fight Night Facebook Page beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Fans can catch all the fights by following the Golden Boy Fight Night Page

Limited tickets for Rojas vs. Diaz Jr. are still available and are priced at $40, not including applicable service charges and taxes. Tickets are available for purchase at www.goldenboytickets.com and the Golden Boy Promotions Facebook page.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.avalonhollywood.com.
Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @AvalonHollywood. Become a fan on Facebookat www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing and
https://www.Facebook.com/AvalonHollywood/Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya and @AvalonHollywood. Follow the conversation using #GBPonFB and #RojasDiazJr

Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here or by copying and
pasting link: http://bit.ly/RojasDiazJr into a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for photos and videos used.

LOS ANGELES (July 25, 2018): The inaugural edition of Golden Boy Fight Night on Facebook Watch promises even more fireworks as Damon “No Smilin'” Allen Jr. (15-0-1, 5 KOs) and Jonathan “Thunder” Navarro (14-0, 7 KOs) face off in a highly competitive battle between two undefeated Golden Boy Promotions prospects in the co-main event of Diaz Jr. vs. Rojas at Avalon Hollywood. The action will be streamed live on Saturday, August 11 beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Fans can catch all the fights by clicking here.

This scheduled eight-round super lightweight battle will be the next chapter in a series of Golden Boy Promotions fights where our very best prospects are matched up to see who’s deserving of contender status.

Allen Jr. is a 25-year-old prospect who hails from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The quick-handed pugilist has defeated tough warriors such as Luis “Vampiro” Arceo, Gamaliel “El Platano” Diaz and Martin “El Brochas” Honorio. Though spending his career at lightweight, Allen Jr. will move up to 140 pounds for this matchup.

“This is a step-up fight for both of us because we’re both undefeated Golden Boy prospects,” said Damon Allen Jr. “I feel I have the advantage though because of my amateur experience and because I was taught in the school of Philadelphia boxing. That puts me ahead of a lot of the other prospects, and everyone will see that when I defeat Jonathan Navarro on August 11.”

Navarro, the pride of East Los Angeles, California, has been very busy this year and will return for his third fight of 2018. The 21-year-old is a natural 140-pounder, and he’ll look to use his size advantage on the much quicker opponent in Allen Jr.

“This is what it takes for me to make the next step in my career,” said Jonathan Navarro. “It’s rare to see two young and undefeated fighters facing each other, so I’m excited to be a part of this matchup against Damon Allen Jr. I feel I’m bigger, stronger and better skilled than Allen Jr., and I promise an exciting victory in front of a hometown crowd.”

Ferdinand “Lucky Boy” Kerobyan (9-0, 5 KOs) of North Hollywood, Calif. will battle across a scheduled six rounds of welterweight action. Aaron “Silencer” McKenna (4-0, 3 KOs) of Monaghan, Ireland will participate in a four-round 147-pound fight.

Opponents for these two fighters will be announced shortly.

Rojas vs. Diaz Jr. is a 12-round fight for the WBA Featherweight World Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Universal Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate,”THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy, “Never Stop, Never Settle.”The fights will take place Saturday, August 11, 2018 at Avalon Hollywood. Doors for the event open at 4:00 p.m. PT. The action will be streamed live on Facebook Watch in the U.S. and globally on the Golden Boy Fight Night Facebook Page beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Fans can catch all the fights by following the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

Limited tickets for Rojas vs. Diaz Jr. are still available and are priced at $40, not including applicable service charges and taxes. Tickets are available for purchase at
www.goldenboytickets.com and the Golden Boy Promotions Facebook page.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.avalonhollywood.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @AvalonHollywood. Become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing and https://www.Facebook.com/AvalonHollywood/
Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya and @AvalonHollywood. Follow the conversation using #GBPonFB and #RojasDiazJr

Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here or by copying and pasting link: http://bit.ly/RojasDiazJr into a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for photos and videos used.

LOS ANGELES (July 10, 2018): Golden Boy Promotions’ partnership with Facebook will kick off with a bang as Jesus Rojas (16-1-2, 19 KOs) defends his WBA Featherweight World Title against Joseph Diaz, Jr. (26-1, 14 KOs) in the main event of the inaugural edition of Golden Boy Fight Night at the Avalon Theater in Hollywood. The action will be streamed live on Saturday, August 11 beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. Fans can catch all the fights by clicking here.

Rojas is a 31-year-old puncher who is coming off a seventh-round knockout against former interim WBA Featherweight World Champion Claudio Marrero. During his time off, Rojas was elevated to world champion status, and he’ll be making the first defense of this title against Diaz, Jr. The native of Caguas, Puerto Rico is an experienced champion as he has taken on the likes of former world champion Jorge “El Travieso”Arce and featherweight contenders Jorge “El Pilón” Lara and Abraham “Chamaco” Lopez.

“I’m ready to come back after almost a year off,” said Jesus Rojas. “I’ll defend my title for the first time on a very important Golden Boy card which will start a new association with Facebook. Diaz Jr. is tough, intelligent and fast, but I have the power and the experience to score a spectacular win against him. We’ll see you all this August 11 in Hollywood.”

Diaz Jr. is a 25-year-old southpaw who represented the U.S. at the 2012 Olympic games in London. Immediately after, Diaz Jr. signed with Golden Boy Promotions and began a stellar career that has earned him a spot at the pinnacle of the featherweight division. Diaz Jr.’s first title opportunity was against Gary Russell Jr. in May of this year. Though he did not win, Diaz Jr.’s impressive efforts earned him an immediate title shot but this time against Rojas.

“I’ve always said that I’m going to be a world champion.,” said Joseph Diaz Jr. “I learned from my last fight, and now I know the adjustments I need to make in order to have a world title around my waist. I’m going to make a big statement in the 126-pound division. It’s also an honor to be the main event of the first-ever Golden Boy show with Facebook. It shows the faith my promoter has in me to be a leading name in the new era of boxing.”

In the co-main event, Ferdinand “Lucky Boy” Kerobyan (9-0, 5 KOs) of North Hollywood, Calif. will battle across a scheduled six-rounds of welterweight action. Aaron “Silencer” McKenna (4-0, 3 KOs) of Monaghan, Ireland will participate in a four-round welterweight fight.

Opponents for these two fighters will be announced shortly.

Rojas vs. Diaz Jr. is a 12-round fight for the WBA Featherweight World Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Universal Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate,”THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy, “Never Stop, Never Settle.”The fights will take place Saturday, August 11, 2018 at the Avalon Theater in Hollywood. The action will be streamed live on Facebook Watch in the U.S. and globally on the Golden Boy Fight Night Facebook Page beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. Fans can catch all the fights by following the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

Tickets for Rojas vs. Diaz Jr. are on sale now and are priced at $40, $50, $60 and $80 not including applicable service charges and taxes. Tickets will be available for purchase at
www.goldenboytickets.com and the Golden Boy Promotions Facebook page.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.avalonhollywood.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @AvalonHollywood. Become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing and https://www.Facebook.com/AvalonHollywood/
Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya and @AvalonHollywood. Follow the conversation using #GBPonFB and #RojasDiazJr

Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here or by copying and pasting link: http://bit.ly/RojasDiazJr into a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for photos and videos used.

By Bart Barry-

One doesn’t know when the urge to experimentalism will strike but one learns indulge it until he learns not to (many efforts before he learns to indulge it once more, in the doubly helical way of creative and open systems). Saturday’s aficionado’s buffet – Lee Selby versus Josh Warrington and Gary Russell versus Joseph Diaz, for featherweight titles, and Adonis Stevenson versus Badou Jack for the light heavyweight championship – present a clean enough roster to explore biases and their possible origins.

This column happens in a coffeeshop as it has for a number of years now, ever since I discovered making the process a reward itself was more sustainable than making the process a thing that merits reward; a decade of Sunday morning procrastinations followed by struggles followed by coffeeshop rewards accidentally gave way to an obvious solution that became such only once it happened accidentally. Then a minor epiphany followed: It’s more fun, if not demonstrably better, to write in a loud and bustling place, and to allow the noises and bustles seep in the column, than run the fool’s errand of sealing your system off – what happens when one’s weekly fears shift from being blocked to being bored.

There are echoes and architectural debates and orders and gossiping happening all round – “flood zones” gets articulated but won’t be used – the workaday wanderings of a mind that spent 25 senseless minutes on haploid cells before sending himself northwards to one of the five coffeeshops of the Sunday morning circuit. The irony of exchanging, or having exchanged for us, immortality for rapid improvement, to become fitter, though alas no more adaptable, than bacteria, sets itself outside of irony for preceding irony by a few hundred million years.

No segue. No bridge.

I didn’t care who would win Warrington-Selby for at least a round. Then it became apparent via observation and commentary Warrington was the shorter busier guy, the volume-puncher to Selby’s boxer, and I began to favor Warrington. I’ve been the shorter busier guy far more often than the taller craftier one, and I initially cheer for whomever reminds me of myself, like you do, though not quite inflexibly as Roy Jones does.

Whither the ancient journalistic ideal of unbias? I’m no longer sure it exists or ever did; bias precedes interest a bit like friction precedes motion. Until we have a thought to prove or disprove, I suspect, we’re daydreaming.

No sooner was Selby bleeding from beside both eyes then I began rooting for Selby in the same halfhearted way I rooted for Warrington. Then Selby and Warrington bled together as different arms and legs of the same general body and I began to root for a fair decision, to root halfheartedly for prizefighting itself, until the decision got read. Then I took a nap.

No segue.

I didn’t care who would win Russell-Diaz for a round and a half. I believed Russell was way overrated when HBO hardsold him to us 6 1/2 years ago the same way I believed Vasyl Lomachenko was way overrated when HBO hardsold him to us four years ago. Then they fought, and by virtue of Lomachenko’s victory Lomachenko could no longer be overrated as Russell.

I interviewed Jose Ramirez six years ago for The Ring magazine and wondered if the California-born U.S. Olympian with a last name ending in ‘z’ mightn’t be Diaz until I spent a few minutes looking that up Sunday morning (since I stopped caring if he was, a minute into round 2 Saturday night). The guy I interviewed was too polished by half, too entrepreneurial, too much about branding, to show what composure Diaz showed 30 seconds into Russell’s flashassault on his gloves Saturday.

I’m so tired of hearing about handspeed, Russell’s or anyone else’s. Maybe because I can’t relate. Maybe because I think it’s an unimaginative way to describe a prizefighter – one doesn’t cultivate handspeed any more than he cultivates height or eyecolor.

Russell’s hometown crowd’s cheering his brief show of exhausting ineffectiveness in round 2 made me cheer against him. Then Diaz’s aggressive reply made me stop caring if Diaz was the young branding executive I spoke with in 2012. I continued to cheer for Diaz until the ninth or 10th round, when by virtue of Russell’s not wilting, howsoever many Diaz bodyshots made Russell’s narrow waste crinkle, I decided Russell was doing something very clever to disarm Diaz. The final round I cheered for suspense, and therefore Diaz, but I didn’t mind the decision.

And I admire Russell for giving himself a C+ and being vulnerable about what vulnerable knuckles keep him inactive. While we lament a talent wasted by indolence Russell finds solace and pride in concealed deficiencies overcome.

No bridge.

I didn’t care who would win Stevenson-Jack for its entirety – an acknowledged disinterest influenced in part by the hour when the match’s opening bell rang. At times I wanted the 40-year-old southpaw to do something reckless and violent with his left hand and end the fight because the fight was not entertaining most of its duration. Later I wanted Jack to wearout the old man and end Stevenson’s deeply unsatisfactory reign as world’s lineal light heavyweight champion.

I wanted to cheer for Stevenson because he won his title the right way, lest we forget, mowerstrapping a talented champion favored to outclass him easily, and because Stevenson has a certain roguish charisma, but finally I couldn’t because Stevenson is neither talented nor active enough to bias me. Stevenson obviously received the draw like a victory, not because he thought he won the fight, unconscious as he was when it ended, but because he got to leave the Canadian ring with his title, ensuring one more championsized purse.

Stevenson and Sergey Kovalev, today, form a pair of prizefighters that stands further from a once-desired rivalry than anyone does.

Bart Barry can be reached via Twitter @bartbarry

Gary Russell, Jr. retained the WBC Featherweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Joseph Diaz at the MGM National Harbor in National Harbor, Maryland.

Russell used his jab and handspeed to keep the charging Diaz.  Diaz landed some nice punches early, but it was the ring generalship of Russell that was the difference of the fight.  The landed a similar amount of punches (199-192 in Russell’s favor), but Russell threw 500 more punches, and he won by scores of 117-111 twice and 115-113.

Russell, 125.5 lbs of Washington, DC is 29-1.  Diaz, 126 lbs of South El Monte, CA is 27-2.

“We train to survive those body shots,” said Russell Jr. “We put the work in every day in the ring. We consistently grind and push ourselves to be great and we push ourselves to the limit.

“I was disappointed in my performance because I wasn’t planning on going the distance. I hurt the right hand, but I still had to use it, because he could not get past my jab.”

“The game plan was to break him down with the body shots and start attacking him more in the later rounds,” said the South El Monte, Calif. native. “But I started attacking him too late and didn’t pick it up until the 8th or 9th round. Gary Russell Jr. is a tremendous fighter and he did a great job keeping me at bay.”

“This will just make me a hungrier fighter. I hope I got the respect of a lot of fight fans. I wanted to become champion against the best featherweight fighter in the world. Tonight wasn’t my night but I’m going to bounce back harder and I’ll be champion soon.”